Ran Kozuch's Hapoel Be'er Sheva Machine Dominates Despite Key Player Departures

Hapoel Be'er Sheva, under coach Ran Kozuch, continues to impress with a strong 2-0 victory over Sabah, demonstrating the team's resilience and tactical consistency despite significant roster changes. Kozuch remains steadfast in his principles, emphasizing ball control, high pressing, and maintaining game tempo regardless of the opponent or competition, whether in the Champions League or Europa League.

The team’s lineup has evolved, featuring new players like Itay Rotman, Niv Yehoshua, and Pedro Amador, alongside less-utilized veterans such as Jebon East, Miguel Vitor, Ofir Marciano, and Zahi Ahmed. Despite the departure of star player Kings Kangwa, who was once considered half the team, Kozuch’s system adapts seamlessly, with players like Eliel Peretz stepping up and East energizing the squad. The club is expected to add two more foreign players and possibly Israeli talents like Basam Zarourah and Maor Levi, with Dan Biton also aiming for a comeback.

Hapoel Be'er Sheva is set to compete in the Europa League and is close to securing a historic Champions League spot, thanks to strong performances and the leadership of veterans like captain Miguel Vitor and goalkeeper Ofir Marciano. Kozuch’s challenge now is managing the squad across multiple competitions, aiming to defend their Israeli championship title while making a deep European run.

The coach’s decisions to retain experienced players and integrate new talent have paid off, with the team showing depth and balance. Despite skepticism following Kangwa’s exit, Hapoel Be'er Sheva looks poised to repeat as Israeli champions and make a significant impact in European football, fulfilling owner Alona Barkat’s modest summer goal of returning to European competition.