Maccabi Haifa Faces Setbacks After Consecutive Losses and Goalkeeper Injury

Maccabi Haifa suffered their second defeat in three days in the Toto Cup, losing 3-0 to Ironi Kiryat Shmona on Sunday following a 3-2 loss to Hapoel Haifa in the derby. Kiryat Shmona dominated most of the match and created numerous scoring chances, making the final score somewhat generous to Haifa. The defeat compounded concerns after goalkeeper Omri Glazer was injured during the play leading to the second goal, colliding with defender Tsunami and appearing to suffer a knee injury. Glazer left the field in tears, raising serious fears about the severity of his injury. Initial tests overnight brought some optimism, but Glazer is expected to undergo an MRI to determine the full extent of the damage.

Beyond the injury, the team’s overall performance disappointed fans. Despite recent statements by coach Barak Bachar and player Lior Refaelov about a new positive direction, Maccabi Haifa still looks far from their goals on the pitch. The squad remains incomplete and is expected to undergo further changes. Defensive weaknesses continue to be a major issue. One player emphasized that the team is still in a rebuilding phase, with many new players and absences, urging patience as the season has barely begun.

Meanwhile, the club is considering options for a backup goalkeeper. Refaelov has identified several candidates, but the club will wait for Glazer’s MRI results before deciding whether to sign another goalkeeper and what profile that player should have.