Hapoel Haifa Proud of 'Top Team Elements' After Season Opener Draw

Hapoel Haifa opened their 2026/27 Israeli Premier League season with a 0-0 draw against Hapoel Tel Aviv at Sammy Ofer Stadium on Sunday. The club expressed satisfaction with the fair outcome and the team's performance in the first half, which they described as showing "elements of a top team." However, there was disappointment regarding a drop in performance during the second half.

"The first half was under our exclusive control and we showed elements of a top team," a club representative stated, acknowledging the need for improvement in the second half, which saw a negative momentum shift. The team is still in a process of integration, and learning to navigate difficult moments with confidence is key.

Owner Yoav Katz echoed these sentiments, suggesting that playing two halves like the first could lead to very high rankings. He praised the players, team, and staff, expressing hope for sustained performance beyond a single half. "When we manage to do that, very good things can happen," he added.

Goalkeeper Yoav Jerafi received the most praise for saving a penalty and keeping a clean sheet. The club highlighted their significant effort to retain him, noting that his presence allows the team to play with more boldness, knowing they have a reliable goalkeeper. New foreign signings Ariel Mendy and Chic Keita also received plaudits for strong performances.

Jerafi expressed the team's ambition to reach the upper playoff bracket, acknowledging the tough competition. "It's a marathon and it's far away," he said, looking ahead to their next match against Hapoel Be'er Sheva. Hapoel Haifa will be without the suspended Ivan Kritsyak, with George Diba expected to replace him in the starting lineup. The club is confident, viewing their opening fixtures against strong championship contenders as opportunities to showcase their football and compete fiercely.