Maccabi Haifa Coach Barak Bachar Vows Team Will Look Different in League Opener After Toto Cup Defeat

Maccabi Haifa suffered a 3-0 loss to Ironi Kiryat Shmona in the Toto Cup, extending their poor start following a derby defeat to Hapoel Haifa. Coach Barak Bachar expressed clear disappointment after the match on July 28, 2026, emphasizing that such performances are unacceptable and promising changes ahead. He acknowledged tactical discipline issues and admitted he needs to reassess his coaching approach to provide better guidance to the players.

Bachar noted that conceding goals due to mistakes is part of the game but stressed the team must respond better and not only improve in the second half. He also addressed the injury to Omri Glazer, who was substituted in the first half, describing the situation as initially alarming but seemingly manageable. He praised the backup goalkeeper for stepping up and making crucial saves under pressure.

Looking forward, Bachar assured that Maccabi Haifa will present a different and improved team in the league opener, stating, "I know what needs to be done. We are trying things that might hurt the team temporarily, but we will continue working and need players who can lift themselves even when it’s tough."