Maccabi Haifa Coach Barak Bachar Expresses Disappointment After Toto Cup Loss to Hapoel Jerusalem

Maccabi Haifa suffered another poor performance, losing 1-0 to Hapoel Jerusalem on August 26 at Sammy Ofer Stadium in the Toto Cup, finishing 10th in the tournament. The only goal came in the 61st minute from Israel Dappa. Following the match, Haifa's coach Barak Bachar voiced his concerns, saying the team lacked sharpness and needs to improve, especially since they barely created chances in the second half. He emphasized the need for players to understand expectations and acknowledged the pressure on the squad to deliver results in the upcoming league season.

Bachar refrained from analyzing individual players but noted the team must work harder to connect and improve. Defender Yila Btayi admitted the team was soft and disappointed, stressing the importance of focusing on the league opener and finding what is missing in their game. Btayi also mentioned his recent injury and the challenge of reintegrating into the defense.

Hapoel Jerusalem coach Lior Zada described the match as below par but highlighted Dappa's potential as a young, strong, and determined player. Goalkeeper Nadav Zamir expressed confidence in the team's unity and readiness for the league, praising Dappa as a special player who is well-liked and hardworking. Both sides acknowledged the need for progress as the league season approaches.