Maccabi Haifa kicked off their pre-season preparations with a comfortable 2-0 victory over Kiryat Yam SC at the International Club Friendly on July 14, 2026. The match, played at a neutral venue, saw the Israeli top-flight side dominate proceedings against their lower-league opponents, showcasing sharp attacking intent and defensive solidity ahead of the new campaign.

Match Overview

The friendly, scheduled as part of Maccabi Haifa's pre-season tour, allowed head coach Barak Bakhar to rotate his squad and test new tactical setups. Kiryat Yam SC, a club competing in Israel's second division, put up a spirited fight but lacked the cutting edge to trouble the Greens' backline. Maccabi Haifa controlled possession from the first whistle and created several chances before breaking the deadlock midway through the first half.

Key Moments

• 33' – Goal (0-1): A well-worked move down the right flank saw winger Dolev Haziza deliver a pinpoint cross, which striker Frédéric Veseli headed home from close range.
• 68' – Goal (0-2): Substitute Dean David doubled the lead with a composed finish after a clever through-ball from midfielder Mohammad Abu Fani. The goal capped a dominant second-half display.
• 85' – Missed chance: Kiryat Yam’s best opportunity came late on when a corner kick forced a reflex save from Maccabi Haifa goalkeeper Omri Glazer, keeping the clean sheet intact.

Tactical Story

Maccabi Haifa deployed a fluid 4-3-3 formation, emphasizing quick transitions and width. The full-backs pushed high, pinning Kiryat Yam deep, while the midfield trio of Ali Eliel, Neta Lavi, and Abu Fani controlled the tempo. Bakhar used the second half to introduce several academy talents, a clear signal of the club's depth heading into the 2026/27 season. Kiryat Yam, by contrast, relied on counter-attacks through lone striker Amit Bitton, but insufficient support limited their threat.

Standout Players

• Dolev Haziza (Maccabi Haifa): The veteran winger was a constant menace on the left flank, providing the assist for the opener and drawing two yellow-card fouls.
• Mohammad Abu Fani (Maccabi Haifa): His vision and passing range unlocked the defense multiple times; he was rightly named man of the match.
• Yaniv Mizrahi (Kiryat Yam SC): The home side's goalkeeper made several sharp saves to keep the scoreline respectable, including a brilliant stop from a free kick in the 50th minute.

Seasonal Context

For Maccabi Haifa, this friendly marks an important step in building fitness and cohesion ahead of the 2026/27 Israeli Premier League campaign, where they aim to challenge for the title once again. Kiryat Yam SC will take positives from their defensive organization, as they prepare for a competitive season in the Liga Leumit with promotion ambitions. The match also provided valuable minutes for players returning from injury, with no fresh fitness concerns reported.

Both clubs now turn their attention to upcoming friendlies, with Maccabi Haifa scheduled to face a European opponent later in July, while Kiryat Yam will continue their pre-season program against regional rivals.