Beitar Jerusalem Prepares for Austria Vienna Clash in Conference League Playoffs

Beitar Jerusalem is intensifying preparations ahead of their crucial Conference League third qualifying round match against Austria Vienna, scheduled for Thursday at 20:30 in Ploiești, Romania. Following delays during their previous trip to Romania, the club has adjusted logistics by advancing their flight to the morning and planning to train locally in Romania instead of their usual facility in Beit Vagan.

Expectations for fan turnout have been lowered from an initial estimate of 4,000 to about 1,500 supporters, influenced by economic considerations and the number of fans who stayed in Romania after the last match. Club CEO Kfir Edri has already traveled to Romania to coordinate security and operational matters ahead of the team's arrival, responding to police requirements.

On the sporting front, striker Shon Weissman, familiar with Austrian football, is expected to start, while Yarden Shua will replace Jonbusco Calu in the starting lineup. Coach Almog Cohen remains undecided between Noam Motta and Ziv Ben Shimol for the midfield, with Motta favored. Defenders Gil Cohen and Brian Crabali, who performed well in recent matches, will continue their partnership at center-back. Additionally, defender Luka Gadrani and midfielder Tomer Yosefi, both recently completing full-contact training, are included in the squad and may see playing time. Left-back Nevo Shudo has also joined the traveling team and will be part of the squad for the match.