Tiberias Owner Proud Despite Toto Cup Loss, Team Prepares for Next Match

After a 3-1 defeat to Hapoel Haifa in the Toto Cup second round on July 28, Tiberias owner Aryeh Kalmanzon expressed pride in his team despite the loss. With four players still suspended due to doping allegations, Kalmanzon praised the young and inexperienced players who took the field, saying, "The result is completely misleading. The team deserved more in the second half." He emphasized the significance for some players to simply play at Sammy Ofer Stadium.

Looking ahead, Tiberias is preparing for their upcoming match against Hapoel Kiryat Shmona while monitoring their squad situation. Forward Samir Farhoud remains suspended for two more games due to a previous red card. Meanwhile, the committee handling player Gal Ma'atok's status is expected to convene soon to determine the compensation Tiberias must pay Maccabi Petah Tikva before he rejoins the squad.

Defender Ondrej Bachu was rested in the last game due to a minor calf muscle issue but is expected to return for the next match. Additionally, midfielder Saar Padida is close to signing with Tiberias after advanced negotiations; most contract terms have been agreed upon, with only a few details left to finalize.

On the coaching front, with head coach Eliran Hodeda suspended, assistant coach Moti Krispil has been authorized to lead the team temporarily for one month. The club is considering two options for the permanent coaching role: hiring a high-profile head coach or appointing a less senior pro-certified coach to work alongside Krispil. The club insists the new coach must work with the current summer-built squad without major changes.