Hapoel Akko 1-2 Hapoel Raanana | Israel Leumit League | 8 May 2026, 21:00

Match Overview

Hapoel Raanana edged out Hapoel Akko 2-1 in a hard-fought encounter at the Akko Municipal Stadium. The visitors took an early lead, saw it cancelled out, but grabbed the winner in the second half to strengthen their grip on a top-four position in the Leumit League.

Key Moments

• 8' – Goal (0-1): Raanana’s Elnatan David volleyed in from a tight angle after a cross from the right was only half-cleared by the Akko defence.
• 31' – Goal (1-1): Akko hit back when striker Dani Valtman headed home a pinpoint corner delivery.
• 67' – Goal (1-2): The winner came from a set piece again – Shalom Cohen rose highest to power a header past the home goalkeeper.
• 90+3' – Red Card: Akko’s Mohammad Abu Ria was sent off for a second yellow card, capping a frustrating evening for the home side.

Tactical Story

Both teams relied heavily on set pieces and aerial duels. Raanana’s midfield pressed aggressively in the first half, forcing Akko to go long. After the equaliser, Akko grew in confidence and created several half-chances, but Raanana’s discipline at the back held firm. The winning goal came from a well-rehearsed free-kick routine that caught Akko’s zonal marking napping.

Standout Player

Shalom Cohen (Hapoel Raanana) scored the decisive goal and won five aerial duels, underlining his importance in both boxes. His physicality was a key weapon throughout the match.

Season Context

Raanana’s win moves them to fourth place, level on points with third but with a superior goal difference. For Hapoel Akko, defeat leaves them 13th, now only one point clear of the relegation playout spots.