Hapoel Jerusalem Opens 2026/27 Season Against Maccabi Tel Aviv with New Dynamic Approach

Hapoel Jerusalem will kick off their 2026/27 Israeli Premier League season on Sunday evening with a challenging home match against the State Cup holders, Maccabi Tel Aviv. The game will take place at their home stadium in Rehovot, where a sold-out crowd is expected, including 3,000 tickets already sold to Maccabi fans.

The club aims to present a revitalized, more dynamic and attacking style compared to previous seasons, prioritizing forward momentum even at some defensive risk. Head coach Lior Zada has fostered a positive and refreshed locker room atmosphere, expressing strong belief in the squad he has built. Despite the absence of young defender Hilai Melman, sidelined with a patellar tendon strain until October, Sani Abdulsalam has recovered from injury and will be available.

Zada described the summer as long and intense, focused on rebuilding and reconnecting the team. He acknowledged some late arrivals and the ongoing search for a suitable foreign striker but emphasized the squad's quality and readiness. He highlighted the importance of maintaining a positive mindset within the team as a key to success. Zada also noted that their updated playing style is still evolving and expects continuous improvement, promising to bring passion and belief to delight their supporters.

Captain Omer Agbadish echoed the optimism, praising the new energy in the squad and expressing excitement to hear the fans' support. He stressed the goal of a better season and personal ambition to make a significant leap forward, particularly in proving themselves against a strong opponent like Maccabi Tel Aviv.

The expected starting lineup includes Nadav Zamir in goal; defenders Tamir Haimovich, Yonatan Lish, Noam Malmod, and Ofek Nadir; midfielders Yanai Distelfeld, Christ Tihey, and Nadim Warasneh; and forwards Ohad Almagor, Vitali Damshkan, and Israel Dafa (Andrew Idoku).