Hapoel Tel Aviv's Rising Star Roi Elkukin Shines in European Victory Over Katowice

Hapoel Tel Aviv secured a 2-0 win against Katowice in the first leg of the Conference League third qualifying round on Thursday, with 22-year-old Roi Elkukin emerging as the standout player. Elkukin, who joined Hapoel's youth team from Beitar Jerusalem, scored the second goal with an impressive and memorable finish. The team demonstrated clear dominance, similar to their previous 2-0 victory over Ludogorets, with a key assist from Aliniv Breda. Elkukin, playing as an attacking midfielder, was very active and nearly scored another goal.

The team remains in Hungary until Tuesday before traveling to Poland for the second leg on Wednesday, with heightened security measures due to concerns about hostile Polish fans. The coaching staff praised defender Marcus Coco, who replaced Doron Leidner due to the latter's mistakes. Emmanuel Boateng also impressed, with a crucial interception leading to Elkukin's goal. Substitute Daniel Dappa missed a one-on-one chance against the Polish goalkeeper.

If Hapoel advances past Katowice, they will face Atalanta, who finished seventh in the Italian league last season. New signing Douglas Aveso, who joined the team recently, is expected to make his debut in the upcoming second leg. Although registered for European matches on Wednesday, Aveso was not included in the squad for the first leg due to his late arrival in Hungary.