Ironi Tiberias Faces Player Suspensions Amid Squad Rotation in Toto Cup Win

Ironi Tiberias began the 2026/27 season with a victory over Bnei Sakhnin despite ongoing turmoil surrounding player suspensions. The northern Israeli club continues to grapple with the fallout from disciplinary issues, which have left four players and head coach Eliran Hodeda sidelined for the Toto Cup second round match against Bnei Sakhnin on Tuesday. Additionally, new signings Gal Ma'atok and Samir Farhoud from Hapoel Be'er Sheva were not included in the squad.

Assistant coach Moti Krispil emphasized the importance of adapting the lineup for each game, stating, "I do not like to use terms like strong or weak lineup, everyone is strong, and we make specific adjustments for each match." He praised the players' character following the win and expressed the team's goal to continue winning through actions rather than words, maintaining humility.

Striker Itamar Shabiro also commented on the team's progress, highlighting the desire to improve cohesion and contribute both in scoring and teamwork. He acknowledged the squad is still incomplete and expressed support for the suspended players.

The club plans to rotate the squad, with youth players Ran Haliva and Roy Shahar expected to start for the first time, alongside Mansour Badji and Shabiro competing for starting roles. The team aims to build momentum as they prepare for upcoming fixtures in the Israeli Premier League.