Hapoel Tel Aviv Advances to Conference League Playoff, Plans Key Signings

Hapoel Tel Aviv secured their place in the Conference League playoff round after a tense 2-3 aggregate victory over Poland's Katowice on August 12, 2026. Despite the win, the team expressed mixed feelings due to a weaker second-half performance and a 2-1 loss in the second leg, following a 2-0 first-leg lead. One player noted the team's strong campaign and deserved victories, though acknowledging the less convincing finish.

Looking ahead, Hapoel Tel Aviv will face Italian side Atalanta in the playoff round for a spot in the league stage. The club praised the first-half performances of players Stav Turiel and Roy Elkukin but remains concerned about late-game struggles. Consequently, the team is actively seeking reinforcements, focusing on signing an Israeli left-back and a foreign left winger.

The club has shown interest in former player Yahav Gurfinkel, who currently plays in Larnaca. However, Gurfinkel is reluctant to return to Israel, especially after a coaching change at his current club has reduced his playing time. Meanwhile, the search for a foreign left winger is a priority, with the club considering releasing Shanda Silva, who has struggled to find consistency since joining.

Following the match, Hapoel Tel Aviv returned to Israel after training sessions in Hungary and Poland. The team is preparing for an upcoming Toto Cup match against Kiryat Shmona on August 14, 2026. New signing Awusu, who has yet to play, continues his adaptation process, with hopes to integrate him into the squad soon. The number of tickets allocated for Hapoel fans traveling to Bergamo for the playoff is still undecided.