Maccabi Tel Aviv and Hapoel Tel Aviv Clash in Toto Cup Final

Maccabi Tel Aviv, the league leaders, will face their rivals Hapoel Tel Aviv, the league runners-up, in the Toto Cup final on Wednesday evening at Bloomfield Stadium. This match marks the first significant title contest between the two clubs since the State Cup final five and a half years ago. Hapoel Tel Aviv, who last won a major trophy in the State Cup 14 and a half years ago (excluding a Toto Cup Leumit title two years prior), are seeking to end a long drought. Maccabi Tel Aviv, meanwhile, aims for their second title under coach Kenny Miller, having already secured the State Cup last season.

The game is anticipated to be intense, with the city rivalry already heightened by a 4-1 league victory for Maccabi over Hapoel just six weeks ago. The article highlights five key matchups that could decide the outcome of the final.

One crucial duel is between Maccabi's defender Marcus Coco, known for his experience in top French leagues, and Hapoel's forward Helio Varela, who played in the recent World Cup. While Coco anchors a strong defense that has conceded only five goals this season, Varela brings speed and technical skill. Another key battle is between Hapoel's young striker Daniel Dafah and Maccabi's experienced defender Shlomo, who has been a stabilizing force in Maccabi's backline. Dafah, despite his youth, has shown promise, scoring a notable goal recently.

The goalkeeping matchup features Hapoel's Assaf Tzur, the current senior Israel national team goalkeeper, against Maccabi's Ofek Malika. Tzur has been in excellent form, making numerous saves and keeping clean sheets, while Malika, though capable of heroics, has shown some inconsistency.

In defense, Maccabi faces challenges due to injuries. With left-back Noam Ben Harush sidelined after surgery, Shagi Ezekiel is expected to play out of position at left-back to counter Hapoel's dangerous winger Douglas Owusu, who relies on speed and dribbling. Finally, the midfield clash between Maccabi's Gabi Kaniovsky and Hapoel's Brazilian defensive midfielder Falcao is set to be pivotal. Kaniovsky's influence has been crucial for Maccabi's midfield control, while Falcao is known for his tackling and leadership in Hapoel's defensive setup.