Maccabi Netanya Eyes European Ambitions After Toto Cup Win Over Maccabi Petah Tikva

Maccabi Netanya continued its strong start in the Toto Cup with a 2-1 victory over Maccabi Petah Tikva on Wednesday, securing six points from six possible and maintaining first place in Group B. The newly promoted Petah Tikva suffered their second loss in the competition. Netanya's coach, Roni Levi, described the match as part of important preparation despite it being a Toto Cup game, emphasizing the need for further squad reinforcements, particularly in midfield, defense, and wing positions. He also criticized the referee for what he considered a harsh red card against his team and praised player Bassam Zaaroura, who scored again but was sent off with a second yellow card. Levi highlighted the promising performance of 16-year-old Yarin Abuhatzira, who played the full 90 minutes despite the physical demands.

Midfielder Maor Levi, who assisted Netanya's second goal, expressed pride in the team's resilience and stressed their ambition to reach European competitions this season. Addressing transfer rumors, he affirmed his happiness at Netanya and commitment to the club, acknowledging the support he has received despite a challenging start. On the other side, Maccabi Petah Tikva's coach Ziv Arie reflected on the match as a useful training exercise, noting the team's youthful roster and the need for further player additions. He remains optimistic about the squad's development and the club's future in the league.

Defender Mohammed Hindi from Petah Tikva described the team as still learning and adapting under a new coaching staff, aiming to present good football and secure their league status. He praised coach Arie for his tactical approach and leadership. The Toto Cup continues to serve as a platform for both teams to prepare for the upcoming league season and evaluate their squads.