Tiberias Prepares for Tough Match Against Maccabi Haifa Despite Squad Shortages

Ironi Tiberias is set to face Maccabi Haifa tonight at 20:00 in the Sammy Ofer Stadium, aiming to secure points for the first time since their opening Toto Cup win against Bnei Sakhnin. The team is still dealing with a limited squad amid ongoing issues with player fitness and availability, but the coaching staff insists there will be no excuses.

Defender Ondrej Bacho and fullback Ron Ungar are fit and expected to play, while interim coach Moti Krispil plans to give minutes to Bar Navi, a player currently on trial with the club. Krispil acknowledged the challenge ahead against one of Israel's top teams but emphasized the focus remains on the team's own goals and progress.

Krispil stated, "Our goal is to improve game by game, strengthen player connections, and get the squad into rhythm ahead of the league start. Every minute on the pitch is valuable for gaining confidence and experience." Despite the squad's fatigue and shortages, Krispil stressed the team will compete fully and showcase their style of football.

The expected lineup includes goalkeeper Gad Amos; defenders Mansour Badji, Ron Ungar, Ondrej Bacho, Nehorai Chen, and Gal Ma'atok; midfielders Ari Cohen, Roy Shahar, Yarin Swisa; and forwards Kais Ganem and Nana. The match is a key test for Tiberias as they seek to build momentum in the Toto Cup and prepare for the league season.