Israel Youth League (U19) – Hapoel Tel Aviv U19 secured a hard-earned 1-0 victory over Maccabi Haifa U19 at the Hapoel Tel Aviv Training Ground on 16 May 2026, in a match that lived up to its derby billing. A fiercely contested first half saw the hosts edge ahead, and they held on through a tense second period to claim all three points.

Early breakthrough decides the derby

The only goal of the game came in the 18th minute. Hapoel Tel Aviv’s central midfielder Yonatan Cohen collected a loose ball 25 yards from goal and unleashed a dipping strike that beat the Maccabi Haifa keeper at his near post. The goal sparked wild celebrations among the home fans, who had packed the small stadium for the youth derby.

Maccabi Haifa responded by increasing their pressing, but Hapoel’s defence, marshalled by captain Noam Ben-Haim, stood firm. The visitors had their best chance just before half-time when striker Idan Leibovich headed wide from a corner after being left unmarked.

Second half: Defensive resilience

The second half was a story of Hapoel’s organisation and energy. They dropped deeper, inviting Maccabi Haifa to attack, but the visiting forwards struggled to break through. Hapoel goalkeeper Roi Shapira made two fine saves – one from a long-range effort and another from a close-range header in the 72nd minute.

Maccabi Haifa pushed forward in the final ten minutes, even sending their centre‑back up for set pieces, but Hapoel cleared every cross and held on for a clean sheet. The full‑time whistle was greeted with relief and jubilation from the home side.

Substitutions and tactical tweaks

Hapoel Tel Aviv coach David Levi introduced fresh legs late on, replacing tired midfielders with defensive‑minded players to secure the lead. Maccabi Haifa brought on three attackers in the final quarter, but they lacked the final pass against a well‑drilled Hapoel backline.

Standouts for both sides

• Yonatan Cohen (Hapoel Tel Aviv) – Match-winner with a stunning goal; tireless in midfield.
• Roi Shapira (Hapoel Tel Aviv) – Crucial saves in the second half preserved the clean sheet.
• Idan Leibovich (Maccabi Haifa) – Unlucky not to score, came closest for the visitors.

League context

The victory moves Hapoel Tel Aviv U19 to 32 points, climbing to 4th in the Israel Youth League table. Maccabi Haifa remain 6th with 28 points, but the derby defeat will sting, especially with the title race tightening. Hapoel’s defensive solidity will be key as they chase a top‑three finish in the coming weeks.