Hapoel Be'er Sheva Coach Ran Kozuch Reflects on Champions League Near-Miss and European League Challenge

Hapoel Be'er Sheva came agonizingly close to qualifying for the UEFA Champions League for the first time in their history during Tuesday's playoff match in Baku against Sabah. The team conceded a late third goal by Sabah, which sent the game into extra time where Be'er Sheva was ultimately defeated 5-2, relegating them to the Europa League group stage instead. This outcome means the club will face eight rounds in the Europa League, including potential matches against top European teams and possibly against Anan Khalaily, a player they have encountered before. The financial rewards will also be less than initially hoped for in Be'er Sheva.

Coach Ran Kozuch expressed disappointment but maintained a positive outlook, saying, "Thank God, even for moments like these. We grow stronger and learn. I know a great Israeli coach who lost a Champions League title on a single moment, so I’m sure I will find my place." He praised the team’s resilience and emphasized that the club has proven it belongs at this level and will continue to fight for Champions League qualification. Kozuch also addressed the red card received by Jibril Diop, expressing frustration over what he described as a "breaking moment" that should not have happened. Regarding substitutions, he noted that players requested to be taken off due to feeling overwhelmed, which he saw as a sign of maturity. Despite the setbacks, Kozuch expressed pride in his players and confidence in the team’s future prospects in both the Europa League and domestic league.

The club now shifts focus to the Europa League campaign and the Israeli Premier League, with Kozuch optimistic about upcoming challenges and the team’s development.