Beitar Jerusalem Prepares for Conference League Clash with Thousands of Fans Traveling to Bucharest

Beitar Jerusalem is gearing up for the crucial Conference League qualifying round second leg against AEK Larnaca, with excitement building at the club. Approximately 2,500 fans are set to travel with the team to Bucharest, with efforts underway to arrange additional flights to increase that number to 4,000. The club has also received ticket requests from Israeli Beitar supporters living in Budapest, Vienna, and Romania, making the final attendance uncertain.

Players Luka Gadrani and Tomer Yosefi have been included in the 23-man squad departing in the afternoon. Both participated in contact training, but if either plays, it is likely as a substitute midfielder. Coach Almog Cohen faces a lineup decision between starting the same 11 players who won 1-0 in Cyprus or giving Ziv Ben Shimol a chance at the expense of Noam Motta. Loaned players Ilai Hajaj and Ravid Abergil, along with Ailson Tavares, will remain in Israel to continue rehabilitation with the help of coaches and physiotherapists.

Foreign players were briefed on the passionate fan support, emphasizing that Beitar Jerusalem has never reached the group stage of a European competition, unlike some stronger teams in the club's history. The club acknowledged the tough draw but expressed confidence in their tools to reach the group stage this season. They stressed the need to perform on the pitch, stating, "Talk alone won't help; we must sweat on Thursday to overcome the Cypriots who know us well." Despite lacking experience and seeding, the club highlighted its exceptional fan base and spirit as key assets.

The club's preparations reflect a strong desire to create historic moments in Europe, a feat yet to be achieved by Beitar Jerusalem, unlike some of their Israeli rivals.