Tiberias Prepares for Sakhnin Amid Club Suspensions and Squad Shortages

Ahead of their Toto Cup season opener against Bnei Sakhnin on Saturday, Ironi Tiberias faces significant challenges due to ongoing suspensions linked to a doping scandal. Following a heated Supreme Court hearing and calls from the Israeli Sports Anti-Doping Agency for harsh penalties against club officials, the team is set to compete with a notably depleted roster. The club acknowledges the situation's severe impact, stating that the mental strain on players and staff is immense, with key figures including head coach Eliran Hodeda and technical manager Chen Sol suspended, alongside captain Guy Hadida and several other players still awaiting decisions on their cases.

In addition to these suspensions, left-back Gal Ma’atok will miss the match due to unresolved transfer compensation issues with Maccabi Petah Tikva. Consequently, Tiberias will field a short squad featuring only three foreign players and five youth players. New midfielder Chris Quaco is expected to start alongside Piras Abu Akel, Bar Cohen, and Ari Cohen, with Kayes Ganem leading the attack and young defender Nehorai Chen filling in for the suspended Sambinia. Mansour Badji, returning from loan at Maccabi Jaffa, will play on the right wing.

Maurice Ozen, the youth department’s professional manager, will temporarily take charge of the team, with assistant coach Moti Krispil handling actual training sessions. Despite the difficulties, the club views this as an opportunity for lesser-used players to prove themselves and strengthen the squad, which remains incomplete. The estimated starting lineup includes Ido Sharon in goal, defenders Mansour Badji, Ron Unger, Endjai Batso, Nehorai Chen, and Guy Sankar, with midfielders Chris Quaco, Piras Abu Akel, Bar Cohen, Ari Cohen, and forward Kayes Ganem.