Beitar Jerusalem Faces Uncertainty Over Yarden Shua Ahead of AEK Larnaca Clash

Beitar Jerusalem prepares for their second-leg match against AEK Larnaca on Thursday, aiming to secure advancement in the European qualifiers after gaining an advantage in the first leg. Coach Almog Cohen has urged his players to maintain an aggressive approach and not rely solely on their previous lead, emphasizing high pressure and energy from the start.

A significant concern for Beitar is the fitness of midfielder Yarden Shua, who missed the final training session due to ongoing abdominal pain. The club has sent him for comprehensive medical tests, and he will undergo a fitness evaluation before the match to determine if he can participate or remain on the bench as a substitute. This is not the first time Shua has faced similar health issues, prompting the club to exercise caution.

In Shua's potential absence, Jonbusco Calu has been trained to start, with a slight preference for Ziv Ben Shimol over Noam Motta in midfield. Meanwhile, around 3,000 Beitar fans have traveled to Bucharest, planning a pre-match march and strong support in the stands. The Israeli embassy in Romania has organized a celebratory event for the fans, and approximately 480 police officers will provide security, including escorting supporters to the stadium.

The club hopes the fans' enthusiasm will help the team complete the task and progress further in the competition. The expected lineup includes Miguel Silva; Nana Antwi, Brian Karveli, Gil Cohen, Yarden Cohen; Ziv Ben Shimol (or Noam Motta), Boris Ino, Daniel Vorko; Omer Atzili, Jonbusco Calu, and Eugene Ansah.