Hapoel Petah Tikva Coach Omri Peretz Makes Lineup Changes Ahead of Must-Win Toto Cup Match

Hapoel Petah Tikva faces a crucial match against Maccabi Netanya on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, needing a victory to keep their hopes alive for advancing to the next stage of the Toto Cup. Following a recent loss to Hapoel Ramat Gan, coach Omri Peretz plans several adjustments to the starting lineup to field a fresher and more competitive team. The club is still awaiting the addition of a foreign defender and exploring options to strengthen the attack within a limited budget.

Unlike Maccabi Netanya, Hapoel Petah Tikva did not play in the previous round, which affects their preparation and player fatigue differently. The expected defensive lineup includes Avishai Cohen, Yazan Nasser, and Orel Dgani, while the midfield will feature Bony Amian, Kimboudi, Roy David, Clay, and Tchipiunga Songa. Up front, there is a decision to be made between Shavit Mazal and Frank Ribolla. Alex Musonda will not be included in the squad as he has recently returned from injury.

The club hopes no concrete offers will arrive for Roy David and Tchipiunga Songa before the January transfer window, aiming to retain them for the remainder of the season. Another ongoing issue is the relationship with goalkeeper Omri Katz, who wishes to transfer to Maccabi Haifa, but the club has refused the move. Hapoel Petah Tikva hopes to reconcile with Katz and keep him as a key player for the upcoming season.

The projected starting lineup for the match is: Omri Katz; Avishai Cohen, Sativ Israel (or Ido Tasa), Orel Dgani, Yazan Nasser; Bony Amian, Kimboudi, Clay; Roy David, Tchipiunga Songa, Frank Ribolla (or Shavit Mazal).