Maccabi Tel Aviv Prepares for Crucial Europa League Comeback Against CSKA Sofia

Maccabi Tel Aviv faces a challenging Europa League qualifier on Thursday evening in Sofia, aiming to overturn a 3-0 first-leg deficit against CSKA Sofia. The Israeli cup holders must win by at least three goals to force extra time and keep their hopes alive in the third qualifying round. Coach Kenny Miller has emphasized belief, capitalizing on scoring opportunities, and avoiding careless turnovers in recent team talks. "The most important thing is to believe in ourselves," Miller told his players, urging them to be ruthless in front of goal when chances arise.

Midfielder Issouf Sissoko echoed this determination in a press conference, acknowledging the team’s mistakes in the first match and expressing readiness to give their all to advance. The lineup will see some changes, with Roy Revivo returning to start at left back after his potential transfer to Elche was put on hold. Tyrese Asante replaces Itay Ben Hamo on the right wing, while Osher Davida and Helio Varela will occupy the flanks. Striker Aster Sokler will lead the attack in place of Said Abu Freih, who is close to a move to Colorado Rapids. Shagiv Yehezkel remains sidelined in Israel due to a groin strain.

If Maccabi Tel Aviv succeeds in Sofia, they will secure a spot in the Europa League playoff round and face Greek side OFI Crete next week. Failure to advance will send them to the final Conference League playoff against Swiss champions Lugano, who are undefeated domestically. The match kicks off at 21:00 local time, with the team drawing inspiration from Hapoel Be’er Sheva’s recent comeback win in Belgrade.