Hapoel Be'er Sheva Secures European Group Stage, Eyes Higher Ambitions

Hapoel Be'er Sheva advanced to the third qualifying round of the UEFA Champions League after overturning a 2-1 first-leg deficit against Icelandic club Vikingur, winning 2-0 in the return leg. This victory guarantees the Israeli champions a place in a European group stage this season, with at least 10 more matches ahead. In the worst-case scenario, they will compete in the UEFA Conference League group stage.

Coach Ran Kojukh expressed satisfaction with reaching the Conference League group stage but emphasized the team's higher goals. "Our aspirations are beyond that," he said, acknowledging the challenge ahead against strong opponents. Be'er Sheva’s next rival is Serbian champions Red Star Belgrade, who recently crushed Northern Ireland’s Larne 9-0 on aggregate. The Serbian side includes Israeli legionnaire Mohammed Abu Fani, familiar with Be'er Sheva, and former Hapoel Tel Aviv player Louizos Louizo, who scored against Be'er Sheva last season.

Kojukh highlighted the unity of the club’s family, including players, staff, owner Alona, and especially the fans. "The fans are above all," he said, stressing their significant responsibility in supporting the team. Be'er Sheva now prepares for a tough challenge but remains confident in their ability to compete and possibly surprise in Europe this season.