Hapoel Tel Aviv Prepares for Crucial Conference League Clash Against Ludogorets in Bulgaria

Hapoel Tel Aviv is set to face Ludogorets in the second leg of the UEFA Conference League second qualifying round on Thursday in Bulgaria. The Israeli club holds a 2-0 advantage from their first leg victory in Hungary, where around 5,000 fans supported them. For the return match, approximately 1,500 Hapoel supporters have purchased tickets to travel and back the team.

Coach Eliniv Berda emphasized in a press conference that the team is focused on completing the task and advancing, acknowledging the challenge ahead. "We are here to finish what we started last week," Berda said, adding that the team respects Ludogorets and must be prepared for all scenarios. Midfielder Andrian Kraiev, playing in his homeland, also stressed the importance of the two-goal lead but noted the match will be different and they aim to secure qualification.

Ludogorets, who recently won 2-0 in their domestic league against Dunav Ruse, are confident despite the deficit. Their coach, Thomas Reis, stated that the team has analyzed their mistakes from the first leg and is ready to respond. Should Hapoel advance, they will face the winner of the third qualifying round tie between Slovakian side Zilina and Polish club GKS Katowice, with Zilina currently leading 2-1 from the first leg.

The expected lineups for Hapoel include goalkeeper Asaf Tzur and key players such as Doron Leidner, Chico Alves, and Emmanuel Boateng. Ludogorets is likely to field Hendrik Bonmann in goal with Albert Salido and Rowan Cruz in attack. The match is crucial for Hapoel Tel Aviv's hopes of reaching the third qualifying round of the Conference League.