Match Report: Maccabi Petah Tikva 2–2 Bnei Yehuda Tel Aviv
Israel Leumit League | 20 May 2026

Match Overview

Maccabi Petah Tikva and Bnei Yehuda Tel Aviv shared the spoils in a pulsating 2-2 draw at the HaMoshava Stadium. A lively encounter saw both sides take the lead at different stages, but neither could hold on as a late equaliser from the visitors ensured a share of the points.

Key Moments

• 22' – Maccabi Petah Tikva opened the scoring through a well-worked team move. Attacking midfielder Ohad Barzilai latched onto a through ball and coolly chipped the advancing keeper.
• 45+1' – Bnei Yehuda equalised just before the break. A floated cross from the left was headed home by striker Eliram Zokhr, leaving the home defence static.
• 64' – Petah Tikva regained the lead from a penalty after a clumsy foul in the box. Captain Tom Ben Zaken sent the goalkeeper the wrong way.
• 81' – Bnei Yehuda levelled again. Substitute Idan Dahan hammered a loose ball from the edge of the area into the top corner, sparking wild celebrations among the away fans.
• 89' – Petah Tikva almost snatched a winner, but headed wide from six yards out.

Tactical Story

Both teams showed attacking intent from the start, with Maccabi Petah Tikva controlling midfield through short passes and quick transitions. Bnei Yehuda preferred a direct style, using long balls to bypass the press. The home side's vulnerability in set-piece situations cost them twice, while the visitors' resilience off the bench proved crucial. The match ended with both sides pushing for a winner, leaving gaps at the back that were not exploited.

Standout Players

Ohad Barzilai (Maccabi Petah Tikva) – The playmaker orchestrated much of his team's attacking play, scoring the opener and creating two other clear chances. His movement off the ball was a constant threat.
Idan Dahan (Bnei Yehuda) – The super-sub scored a stunning equaliser and injected energy into the final third, giving his team a valuable point.

League Impact

The draw keeps Maccabi Petah Tikva in 5th place, five points adrift of the promotion spots but now with a game in hand. Bnei Yehuda remain in 9th, still within touching distance of the playoff places. The result is a missed opportunity for the home side, who have now drawn three of their last four games.