Guy Serfaty Confident Hapoel Be'er Sheva Can Defeat Red Star Belgrade in Champions League Qualifiers

Ahead of the Champions League qualifying matches between Hapoel Be'er Sheva and Serbian champions Red Star Belgrade, former assistant coach Guy Serfaty expressed confidence that the Israeli team can overcome their opponent. Drawing from his experience with Red Star as Barak Bachar's assistant, Serfaty highlighted that while Red Star is a club with a strong tradition, a large squad, and a powerful home stadium, Israeli football has shown it is possible to beat them, citing Maccabi Haifa's previous success as proof. He described the task as difficult but achievable.

Serfaty also discussed the impact of Hapoel Be'er Sheva's recent sale of their key player, Kings Kangwa. He noted that Kangwa was the team's best player and left in good form, which will affect the squad. However, he emphasized that Be'er Sheva still has a young, talented roster capable of competing effectively. Reflecting on Kangwa's time at Red Star, Serfaty explained that although Kangwa performed well and started important matches, the coaching staff opted for players with different profiles, leading to his removal from the starting lineup.

Regarding Red Star, Serfaty described it as Serbia's largest club, known for extensive player transfers and developing young talent sold to major European clubs. He praised their coach, Dejan Stanković, a former star player, and noted the club's dominance in the Serbian league. Serfaty stressed the importance of qualifying for the Champions League group stage for Red Star, as it generates significant revenue, player sales, and fan support.

Finally, Serfaty commented on new Red Star signings Mohamed Abu Fani and Louizos Louizo. He mentioned that Abu Fani has integrated well into the team, and Louizo, who recently scored an awaited goal, faces competition from returning player Boukari, suggesting a potential positional shift for Louizo to number 10 could benefit him.