Ex-Player Tal Ben Haim Defends Player's Goal Celebration Amid Controversy

Former Israeli footballer Tal Ben Haim has defended the controversial goal celebration of player Osher Davida, who taunted opposing fans. Ben Haim, speaking on the "Olim LaRegel" podcast, criticized what he called "pretense" surrounding the incident, drawing a parallel to Lionel Messi celebrating in front of Real Madrid fans. He questioned why Messi's actions are accepted while Davida's are condemned, arguing that Davida faces constant abuse from Hapoel Tel Aviv fans and on social media, making his celebration a natural response.

Ben Haim stated, "There is no drama. I am not angry at Osher Davida, it is legitimate." He emphasized that Davida is often cursed by Hapoel Tel Aviv supporters and online, and his celebration was a simple "pew pew" gesture.

However, fellow former player Itay Shechter disagreed, expressing a different perspective. "I don't connect with it as much," Shechter said. "You can celebrate a goal, but you are not yet Zahavi." He advised Davida to celebrate with joy but avoid provocation, especially given his past move from Hapoel to Maccabi Tel Aviv. Shechter added that even when Eran Zahavi arrived in Israel, he declared himself "100% yellow" (Maccabi's color) but did not need to be defiant.