Hapoel Be'er Sheva Upsets Red Star Belgrade 1-0 in Champions League Qualifier

Hapoel Be'er Sheva stunned Serbian champions Red Star Belgrade with a 1-0 victory in the first leg of the third qualifying round for the UEFA Champions League on August 4, 2026. The Israeli champions will travel to Belgrade next week for the decisive second leg at the Marakana Stadium, carrying significant confidence from their home win.

Coach Ran Kozuch praised his team's courage and tactical discipline, emphasizing their high pressing and ball movement as key to overcoming the quality of their opponents. He acknowledged the challenge ahead in Serbia but expressed belief in his squad's hunger and ambition, stating, "We knew we had to sacrifice to compete with Red Star's quality. We are still rebuilding but remain hungry and want to achieve everything."

Kozuch also reflected on the team's resilience, noting that despite difficulties and a previous uncertain position within the club, the players managed to endure and enjoy the challenge. He reminded that the tie is still open and urged his team to remain humble. Should Be'er Sheva advance, they will face either Danish champions Aarhus or Azerbaijani champions Sabah in the playoff round, both considered less formidable opponents than Red Star.

This victory marks a significant step toward a historic group stage appearance for Hapoel Be'er Sheva in the Champions League, a milestone that would elevate the club's status in European football.