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, emphasizing the need to play for a win rather than relying on their existing lead. He stressed the importance of high pressure and energy from the start of the game.

A major concern for Beitar is the fitness of midfielder Yarden Shua, who continues to suffer from abdominal pain. Shua missed the final training session and appeared weak, prompting the club to send him for comprehensive medical examinations. Before the match, he will undergo a fitness test to determine if he can run and has the necessary strength to play. Depending on his condition, the decision will be made whether to include him in the squad as a substitute option.

This is not the first time Shua has faced similar health issues in recent years, and the club is cautious about risking his condition. In his potential absence, Jonbusco Calu has been trained to start in midfield. There remains some uncertainty over the midfield lineup, with a slight preference for Ziv Ben Shimol over Noam Motta.

Meanwhile, approximately 3,000 Beitar fans have traveled to Bucharest, Romania, where they plan to hold a procession and provide strong support during the match. The Israeli embassy in Romania has organized a celebratory event for the fans, who will receive enhanced security measures. Around 480 police officers are expected to secure the game, including escorting fans to the stadium. The club hopes the fans' support will help the team complete the task and continue their European campaign.

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.