Bnei Sakhnin Shakes Up Defense Ahead of Season Opener Against Hapoel Petah Tikva

One week before the new season begins, Bnei Sakhnin is making significant changes in its defensive lineup ahead of tonight's Toto Cup match against Hapoel Petah Tikva, which will determine 13th-14th place. Coach Yossi Abuksis has decided to bench veteran defender Iyad Abu Abid, signaling a major shakeup in the back line. Dmitri Kavra, a recently signed center-back, is expected to make his debut for the club.

With Basil Khoury returning from suspension, Ahmad Salman is likely to start on the right flank. Modestas and Roboveys, both recovered from illness, are set to replace the injured Norberto Carlos. Mohamed Abu Ria is expected to take the place of the suspended Ahmad Taha. The club is eager to see how their highest-paid player performs in action.

Bnei Sakhnin is determined to strengthen the squad before the season starts, recognizing that without adding three to four key players, the team risks finishing in the lower part of the league table. The focus is on acquiring a foreign striker and two top Israeli players to bolster the attack. Recently, the club was offered Maccabi Netanya defender Itay Ben Shabat, but they have currently decided not to pursue negotiations and are exploring other options.