Kiryat Yam SC 0 – 0 Maccabi Ahi Nazareth (Israel Ligat Leumit Toto Cup – 31 July 2026)

In a tightly contested Group stage fixture of the Israel Ligat Leumit Toto Cup, Kiryat Yam SC and Maccabi Ahi Nazareth played out a goalless draw at a neutral venue on the night of 31 July 2026. The result leaves both sides with work to do as they eye a spot in the knockout rounds of Israel's secondary league cup competition.

Match Overview

The Toto Cup, a pre-season tournament mainly featuring teams from the Liga Leumit (Israel's second division), provides an early competitive test ahead of the league campaign. Kiryat Yam, a club that has been steadily building its squad, faced a Maccabi Ahi Nazareth side known for their disciplined defensive structure. The match lacked clear-cut chances, with both outfits prioritising organisation over risk-taking in the intense summer heat.

Key Moments

• First half: Kiryat Yam controlled possession but could not break through a resolute Nazareth backline. The best chance came from a long-range effort that sailed just over the bar.
• Second half: Maccabi Ahi Nazareth grew into the game after the break, creating a couple of half‑openings from set pieces. However, Kiryat Yam’s goalkeeper made a crucial save from a close-range header to keep the score level.
• Final stages: Neither side could find a late winner, as fatigue and stifling midfield battles neutralised any remaining threat.

Standout Players

For Kiryat Yam, central midfielder Aviv Cohen anchored the play and distributed well, while Maccabi Ahi Nazareth’s Omar Dabbah impressed with his reading of the game at centre‑back, making several timely interceptions.

What It Means

Both teams take a point from the opening Toto Cup group match. The clean sheet will please both defences, but the lack of goals will raise questions about their attacking sharpness as the league season draws nearer.