Hapoel Be'er Sheva Prepares for Crucial Champions League Clash in Serbia

Hapoel Be'er Sheva, the reigning Israeli champions, face a pivotal Champions League third qualifying round second leg against Red Star Belgrade at the packed Marakana Stadium in Serbia on Tuesday at 21:00. Holding a 1-0 advantage from the first leg, Be'er Sheva aims to secure at least a draw to advance to the playoff round, guaranteeing a minimum of 5 million euros in prize money and a spot in the Europa League group stage.

Coach Ran Kozluk downplayed the intimidating atmosphere expected from over 40,000 Serbian fans, emphasizing focus on the quality of the opponent rather than the crowd. He highlighted Red Star's aggressive home style and noted the importance of striker Igor Zlatanovic, a key player for Be'er Sheva, who will face his compatriots. The team acknowledged feeling disrespect from Red Star even after their first-leg win in Hungary and prepared for a tough, physically demanding match.

Due to suspensions and injuries, Kozluk will make one forced change in the starting lineup, with Portuguese left-back Pedro Amdur starting instead of the suspended Matan Baltaksa. The defensive pairing will remain with Itay Rotman and Miguel Vitor, while Javon East returns on the right flank alongside Zahy Ahmed and Zlatanovic upfront.

In parallel, the club announced that all future home matches in European competition, starting from the playoff round and including the Europa League group stage, will be played at the Giulești Arena in Bucharest, Romania. This modern stadium, with a capacity of 14,050 and home to Rapid Bucharest, was chosen to facilitate easier travel for thousands of Israeli fans. The club looks to complete the qualification task in Belgrade and inaugurate their new home ground in Romania with a strong performance.