Hapoel Petah Tikva Coach Omri Peretz Makes Lineup Changes Ahead of Crucial Toto Cup Match

Hapoel Petah Tikva faces a must-win situation in their Toto Cup campaign as they prepare to host Maccabi Netanya on Wednesday. Following a loss to Hapoel Ramat Gan, the team understands that only a victory will keep their hopes alive for advancing to the next stage of the tournament. Coach Omri Peretz, who is still awaiting the arrival of a foreign defender and exploring options to strengthen the attack within a limited budget, plans to field a refreshed lineup compared to the previous match.

Unlike Maccabi Netanya, Hapoel Petah Tikva did not play in the last round, giving them a slight advantage in terms of player fatigue. Defensively, the expected starters include Avishi Cohen, Yazan Nasser, and Orel Dgani. The midfield is set to feature Bony Amin, Kimbodi, Roy David, Clay, and Tchipiunga Songa. Up front, there is a decision to be made between Shavit Mazal and Frank Ribola. Alex Musonda will not be included in the squad as he has only recently returned from injury.

The club hopes that no concrete offers will arrive for Roy David and Tchipiunga Songa before the January transfer window, ensuring their continued presence in the team. Another ongoing issue is the situation with goalkeeper Omri Katz, who wishes to transfer to Maccabi Haifa. However, Hapoel Petah Tikva has refused to release him, hoping to mend relations and keep him as a key player for the upcoming season.

The projected lineup for the match is Omri Katz; Avishi Cohen, Satu Israel (Ido Tassa), Orel Dgani, Yazan Nasser; Bony Amin, Kimbodi, Clay; Roy David, Tchipiunga Songa, and Frank Ribola (or Shavit Mazal).