Maccabi Tel Aviv Faces Tough Away Match Against Lugano in Conference League Playoff

Maccabi Tel Aviv is set to play a challenging away match against Swiss club Lugano on Thursday at 21:30 Israel time in the first leg of the UEFA Conference League playoff round. A victory over the two legs would see Maccabi advance to the Conference League group stage, marking a return to European competition after two seasons in the Europa League. Around 800 Maccabi fans are expected to travel to support the team in Switzerland.

Coach Kenny Miller plans to field the same starting eleven that secured a 3-1 win against CSKA Sofia in their last match, aiming to build on that strong performance. Miller acknowledged the different weather conditions in Lugano, including rain, but expressed confidence that the players will adapt. He emphasized the importance of maintaining the high level of play demonstrated recently despite the disappointment of not continuing in the Europa League.

Maccabi has started the season well, winning five of six matches, but faces a demanding schedule with games on Thursday, Sunday, and the following Thursday. Miller highlighted the focus on recovery and rotation to keep the squad fresh. He also noted the return of several players from suspensions and minor injuries, which broadens the team's options.

The expected lineup for Maccabi includes Ofek Malika in goal, defenders Tyrese Asante, Mohamed Ali Kamara, Raz Shlomo, and Roy Revivo, midfielders Issouf Sisoko, Ido Shahar, Dor Peretz, and forwards Osher Davida, Esther Sokler, and Helio Varela. Lugano's probable lineup features David Bellmus as goalkeeper and a defensive line of Yanis Kimignani, Antonius Papadopoulos, Lars Mai, and Joel Beichsal.

Miller concluded by stressing the team's mindset to win and perform at their best, confident in their ability to secure a positive result in the away leg.