Hapoel Jerusalem Focuses on Strong League Start After Toto Cup Win Over Maccabi Haifa

Hapoel Jerusalem concluded their Toto Cup campaign on August 17 with a 1-0 victory against Maccabi Haifa, securing ninth place in the preseason tournament. Despite the win, the team downplayed the match's significance, emphasizing the importance of starting the upcoming league season strongly. Israel Dafa scored the decisive goal, while the defense remained solid and new signings integrated well into the squad.

The club expressed optimism about the league opener against Maccabi Tel Aviv, anticipating a sold-out stadium and noting high ticket demand from opposing fans. New captain Omer Agbadish was included in the squad for the first time this summer but did not play, while new signing Sharani Zoubeiro featured for 30 minutes. Injured players Abdulsalam Sani and Hilai Melman remain sidelined, with Sani expected to return to full training soon and Melman awaiting further test results.

Hapoel Jerusalem has yet to finalize their roster and is actively seeking a striker to strengthen their attacking line ahead of the league kickoff. The team aims to improve their Toto Cup standing next season by finishing eighth or better.