Kafr Qasim 2–1 Hapoel Kfar Shalem
Israel Ligat Leumit Toto Cup – 31 July 2026

Kafr Qasim came from behind to claim a hard-fought 2–1 victory over Hapoel Kfar Shalem in their Toto Cup opener. The match at the Kafr Qasim Municipal Stadium saw the hosts rally after a slow start, displaying resilience that will encourage their supporters ahead of the new Ligat Leumit campaign.

Match Overview

Kfar Shalem started brightly and took a deserved lead in the 17th minute when striker Gal Egozi latched onto a through ball and finished calmly past the goalkeeper. The early goal seemed to stun the home side, who struggled to keep possession and were pinned back for long stretches. However, as the half wore on, Kafr Qasim grew into the game and equalised just before the interval through a well-worked set piece.

The second half was a tighter affair, with both teams showing the typical rustiness of pre-season. Kafr Qasim’s winner came in the 74th minute when substitute Mohamed Abu Rumi tapped in after a goalmouth scramble. The hosts then held on comfortably to secure the three points.

Key Moments

• 17' – Egozi gives Kfar Shalem the lead with a composed finish.
• 43' – Kafr Qasim equalise: a header from Ahmed Darawsha from a corner.
• 74' – Abu Rumi scores the winner after a chaotic sequence in the box.
• 88' – Kfar Shalem’s best chance to draw level hits the crossbar.

Tactical Story

Kafr Qasim lined up in a 4-2-3-1 that initially looked disjointed, with the wide players failing to support the lone striker. After the equaliser, the home side switched to a more direct 4-4-2 with two target men, causing problems for the Kfar Shalem defence. The visitors, playing a 4-3-3, were effective in transition but lacked composure in the final 15 minutes.

Standout Players

Ahmed Darawsha was crucial at both ends, scoring the equaliser and winning important tackles. Mohamed Abu Rumi made an instant impact off the bench, while Kfar Shalem’s Gal Egozi was a constant threat in the first half with his movement.

Table and Season Impact

Kafr Qasim join Maccabi Herzliya on three points, setting up an intriguing group battle. The Toto Cup is often used by coaching staffs to test player combinations and fitness levels, and this victory will give Kafr Qasim momentum. Hapoel Kfar Shalem, despite losing, showed enough to suggest they can compete in the group, but defensive lapses must be addressed.