Barak Bachar Makes Major Lineup Changes for Maccabi Haifa Ahead of Kiryat Shmona Match

Maccabi Haifa coach Barak Bachar plans significant changes to the starting lineup and formation for their upcoming match against Ironi Kiryat Shmona on Tuesday at 20:00. This comes after their recent derby loss to Hapoel Haifa, particularly due to a poor first half performance. Bachar is expected to adjust the defense and midfield depending on player availability.

Tsunami, who came on in the second half against Hapoel Haifa and showed good form, is likely to start. With Pedro still absent from training, Noam Shtifman and Sean Goldberg are set to hold defensive positions. Nigel Lonwijk is expected to be included in the squad and may make his debut, while Zohar Zasno will probably be benched. Although Yila Btayi has returned to full training, he is unlikely to start; instead, Bachar may deploy a three-center-back formation practiced extensively over the summer.

Ali Mohamed, who also performed well as a substitute, is in contention for one of the two defensive midfield spots. Bruninho is expected to receive more playing time, and Guy Melamed might start. The club is hopeful for the return of Manuel Benson, who is currently undergoing treatment and has not yet resumed training. Maccabi Haifa is cautious about rushing his status, aiming for his full recovery to strengthen their attack.