Hapoel Tel Aviv Stages Dramatic Comeback to Reach Toto Cup Final Against Maccabi

Hapoel Tel Aviv secured a dramatic victory on August 16, 2026, overcoming Ironi Kiryat Shmona 2-1 in the Toto Cup semi-final with two late goals by Daniel Dappa in the 97th and 99th minutes. Despite playing against 10 men, Hapoel was on the verge of a frustrating elimination until Dappa's decisive brace turned the match around, earning the team a historic derby final against Maccabi Tel Aviv. The club praised the players' character and persistence, highlighting their continuous pressure and belief until the final whistle as key to the win.

Several players were rested due to fatigue, including Emmanuel Boateng and Adrian Krieb, while Omri Altman missed the match with a hand injury but is expected to return for the upcoming game. New signing Douglas Avso made his debut, assisting the winning goal, though he is still adapting and not yet fully match-fit. Meanwhile, Hapoel is intensifying efforts to sign a left-back, initially focusing on Israeli players but now expanding the search internationally after failing to find a suitable candidate locally.

The team now shifts focus to their UEFA Conference League playoff match against Atalanta in Bergamo on Thursday, August 20, 2026. All 1,500 tickets allocated to Hapoel fans for the away game have sold out, following a strong home turnout of over 8,000 supporters at the Shlomo Biton Stadium. Coach Eliniv Breda's squad will travel to Italy on Tuesday aiming to create an upset against one of their toughest opponents.