Hapoel Tel Aviv Returns to European Competition with Win Over Ludogorets

Hapoel Tel Aviv marked its return to European football after a 12-year absence by securing a 2-0 victory against Bulgaria's Ludogorets on Thursday in Miskolc, Hungary. The match was part of the second qualifying round of the UEFA Conference League. The team, coached by Eliniv Breda, will travel to Bulgaria for the second leg with a strong advantage, aiming to advance to the third qualifying round where they could face the winner between Slovakia's Žilina and Poland's Katowice.

The game featured a vibrant atmosphere with 6,000 Hapoel supporters creating an intense home-like environment, including a flare display that briefly halted the match. Omri Altman scored just before halftime, and Chico sealed the win near the end. Ludogorets faces a tough task in the return leg, described by Bulgarian media as "with their backs against the wall."

Hapoel players expressed excitement about the European comeback and praised the fans' support. Midfielder Adrian Krav emphasized the team's determination and compact play, acknowledging missed chances but stressing that "the work is not finished." He also noted the expected aggressive play from Ludogorets in Bulgaria and the importance of a strong start to increase their chances of progressing.

Krav highlighted the club's revival since last year, connecting the European matches to the club's proud history and the motivation it provides. The team looks forward to continuing its European journey with hopes of further success.