Hapoel Be'er Sheva Secures European Group Stage After Win Over Vikingur

Hapoel Be'er Sheva advanced to the third qualifying round of the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday after defeating Vikingur 2-0 in the second leg in Hungary, winning 3-2 on aggregate. This victory guaranteed the Israeli champions participation in a European group stage competition this season, restoring confidence after earlier criticism following losses to Maccabi Tel Aviv and Vikingur in the first leg. Despite a slow and pressured first half, Be'er Sheva adjusted their tactics in the second half, playing more directly and increasing their tempo. Amir Ganah, who came on as a substitute in the 75th minute, scored the decisive goal five minutes later.

Zahi Ahmed was the standout player, scoring the opening goal and posing a constant threat, including a second goal that was disallowed for offside. Kings Kangwa also contributed with an important assist, helping secure the club’s European campaign. Coach Ran Kozuch expressed pride in his players’ resilience and emphasized the need for further improvements. He acknowledged the challenge ahead against Red Star Belgrade, who await Be'er Sheva in the next round after their dominant 9-0 aggregate win over Larnaca.

The first leg against Red Star Belgrade is scheduled for August 4 or 5, with the playoff draw set for August 3, which will determine Be'er Sheva’s potential path forward. Even if eliminated in the upcoming rounds, Be'er Sheva is assured of at least a spot in the UEFA Conference League group stage this season. Kozuch highlighted the team’s ambition to progress further and promised a determined and courageous approach in the matches ahead.