Israeli Premier League Climbs European Rankings on Strong Club Performances

The 2026/27 season has become the most successful for Israeli football in Europe since 2007, with the Premier League reaching 23.75 points and ranking 23rd among European leagues. This surpasses the previous two seasons and creates a significant lead over Slovenia, although Israel remains behind Romania, Croatia, Austria, and Sweden in the rankings. The ranking is based on a five-year cumulative points system reflecting club performances in European competitions.

Key to this rise are the campaigns of Hapoel Be'er Sheva and Hapoel Tel Aviv, two clubs that had struggled in Europe in recent years. Hapoel Be'er Sheva earned six ranking points this season alone, exceeding their total of 5.5 points from the previous three seasons combined, which could benefit them in next season's Conference League qualifiers. Hapoel Tel Aviv returned to European competition after several years, already securing three ranking points.

The improved performances of these clubs are expected to provide a competitive advantage in future European qualifying rounds, regardless of the specific tournament. Meanwhile, Maccabi Haifa maintains a high ranking due to their participation in the 2022/23 Champions League season. The current league rankings show Austria leading with 25.75 points and five representatives in Europe, followed by Croatia (25.531), Romania (24.875), Israel (23.75), Slovenia (22.844), and Ukraine (22.588).

This progress marks a strategic asset for Israeli football, potentially enabling more teams to qualify for higher-level European competitions in the coming years. The Premier League's upward trajectory reflects a broader improvement in Israeli club football on the continental stage.