Azerbaijani Media Warns Against Underestimating Hapoel Be'er Sheva Ahead of Champions League Playoff

Hapoel Be'er Sheva is on the verge of making club history as it faces Sabah FK from Azerbaijan in a crucial two-legged playoff for a spot in the UEFA Champions League group stage. The Israeli team, coached by Ran Kozuch, has already overcome significant challenges this summer and now stands just 180 minutes away from its greatest European achievement.

Ahead of the match scheduled for Wednesday, Azerbaijani media and experts have praised Hapoel Be'er Sheva's strength and resilience. Shahin Diniyev, former coach of the Azerbaijani national team and former player in Israeli clubs Beitar Tel Aviv and Hapoel Tayibe, told AZƏRTAC that the Israeli Premier League is far from weak and that Hapoel Be'er Sheva's recent championship win over larger clubs proves their quality. He highlighted their victory over Red Star Belgrade in the third qualifying round, noting that despite Red Star's significantly larger budget, Hapoel Be'er Sheva won both matches without conceding a goal, making them a team to fear.

Azerisport also emphasized Hapoel Be'er Sheva's excellent form and European experience, describing Sabah as the toughest opponent the Israeli club has faced so far in the Champions League qualifiers. They noted that due to security concerns in Israel, all of Hapoel Be'er Sheva's European matches are effectively away games, yet this has not hindered their progress. The Azerbaijani outlet advised not to underestimate the Israeli side, which boasts a strong squad with several notable players.

The upcoming matches will be decisive for both clubs, with equal chances according to local experts. The outcome will determine whether Hapoel Be'er Sheva can enter the Champions League group stage for the first time in its history, marking a significant milestone for the club and Israeli football.