Eli Ohana Criticizes Beitar Jerusalem's Risky Play After European Exit

Eli Ohana, commenting on Beitar Jerusalem's recent elimination from European competition, criticized the team's insistence on playing a high-risk buildup style after securing a 2-0 lead. Speaking on the sports program "Yetzia HaItonut," Ohana argued that the team should have slowed the game down and preserved their advantage instead of continuing to push the ball from the back. He emphasized that the responsibility lies with the coach, not the players, stating, "I do not blame Silva for the goal. He has nothing to do with it."

Ohana questioned the decision to take such risks with buildup play, especially when several opposing players were pressing near their goal. He attributed this approach to coach Almog Cohen's philosophy of high pressing and structured buildup but noted that this time Beitar paid a heavy price both financially and professionally. Ohana lamented the missed opportunity for Beitar to advance to the playoff stage and move past their disappointing European record, calling it a "huge miss" given the team's superior quality and chances.

He concluded by affirming Beitar Jerusalem's status as a strong team in the league with potential to compete at the top, and that this setback should not harm the league's reputation. Ohana's remarks highlight the tension between tactical risk and game management in high-stakes matches.