Hapoel Petah Tikva Prepares for City Derby Against Maccabi Petah Tikva

Hapoel Petah Tikva is set to officially start its season tomorrow with a highly anticipated city derby against local rivals Maccabi Petah Tikva. Despite significant player sales that brought substantial funds to the club, mainly through Joslin Tabi, fans remain unimpressed by the limited new signings. While contracts for standout players from last season have been upgraded, and the club acquired Kerim Kimbidi from Ashdod along with a lucrative deal for Guy Badash, expectations are tempered. Both players and management acknowledge the challenge of replicating last season's success of reaching the upper playoff bracket.

The team will face the derby without defender Alex Musonda. In his absence, Stav Israeli will partner with Orel Dgani in central defense, with Yazan Nasser and Avishai Cohen starting as fullbacks. Midfield will feature Roy David, who the club hopes will attract a high transfer offer, alongside Buni Amayan and Tomer Altman. Clay, who missed the training camp due to visa issues, has returned but is not yet match fit, so Guy Badash, Chipiunga Songa, and Shavit Mazal are expected to start in attack. New signing Frank Ribolié has yet to make a strong impression.

The projected starting lineup includes Omar Katz in goal; defenders Avishai Cohen, Orel Dgani, Stav Israeli, and Yazan Nasser; midfielders Tomer Altman, Buni Amayan, and Roy David; and forwards Guy Badash, Chipiunga Songa, and Shavit Mazal. Fans' disappointment stems from the modest reinforcements despite the club's financial gains, casting some doubt on the team's ability to match last year's achievements.