Maccabi Netanya Owner Encourages Players Despite Draw Against Bnei Sakhnin

Maccabi Netanya aimed to start their season with a home victory against Bnei Sakhnin but were held to a 0-0 draw on August 25, 2026. The match saw strong goalkeeping from Sakhnin's Raul Belberau and a lack of sharpness from Netanya's attack, despite their clear dominance and greater threat throughout the game. Owner Russ Kestin, who watched the match, encouraged the players afterward, saying, "Although we didn't win, we played well. I'm proud of you, the goals and victories will come."

The coaching staff expressed disappointment with the result, particularly criticizing the team's wing play. Among the players, 19-year-old defender Beni Feldman received praise for his impressive performance and securing a starting position last season. Team officials commented, "He can go far, he is developing quickly and learning fast."

Netanya hopes to move past this result quickly as they prepare to face Beitar Jerusalem at Bloomfield Stadium on Saturday. Following the draw, coach Ronny Levy may make changes to the starting lineup. Meanwhile, the club has yet to respond to the verbal attacks directed at Bnei Sakhnin players Iyad Abu Abid and Ilai Hajaj by a small group of Netanya fans outside the stadium.