Maccabi Netanya swept aside Hapoel Jerusalem 3-1 in a dominant performance at the Netanya Stadium, opening their Israel Ligat Al Toto Cup campaign with a comprehensive victory.

Match Overview

The hosts were in control from the first whistle, pressing high and creating numerous chances. Hapoel Jerusalem struggled to cope with Netanya’s intensity and were forced into defensive errors.

Key Moments

• 17th minute: Maccabi Netanya took the lead. A cross from the right was headed down and volleyed home from close range.
• 33rd minute: Netanya doubled the advantage. A quick free-kick caught the Jerusalem defense flat-footed, allowing the winger to slot in.
• 58th minute: Hapoel Jerusalem pulled one back through a penalty after a handball in the box.
• 74th minute: Maccabi Netanya restored the two-goal cushion with a powerful strike from outside the box that bent into the top corner.

Tactical Story

Maccabi Netanya used a 4-2-3-1 formation that overloaded the midfield, creating space for wide players. They recorded 15 shots to Hapoel Jerusalem’s 6, demonstrating clear superiority in the final third. Hapoel’s attempts to build from the back were repeatedly disrupted by Netanya’s press.

Standout Players

• Maccabi Netanya winger: Scored one goal and created two assists, winning the man of the match award.
• Netanya central midfielder: Broke up play and distributed efficiently, finishing with 92% pass accuracy.

Cup Standings

With the 3-1 win, Maccabi Netanya top their group on goal difference. Hapoel Jerusalem face an uphill battle to advance but have time to recover in the remaining group fixtures.