Maccabi Herzlia 2–0 Hapoel Raanana
Israel Ligat Leumit Toto Cup – 31 July 2026

Maccabi Herzliya kicked off their 2026 Toto Cup campaign with a composed 2–0 victory over Hapoel Raanana at the Herzliya Municipal Stadium. The home side dominated from the first whistle, controlling possession and creating the clearer chances against a Raanana team that struggled to find rhythm in the pre-season tournament.

Match Overview

Played under the lights on a warm July evening, the match was a typical early-season affair with both sides still integrating new signings. Herzliya, looking to build momentum ahead of the Ligat Leumit season, pressed high and forced Raanana into several defensive errors. The first goal arrived in the 23rd minute when a swift counter-attack caught the away defence flat-footed, and striker Idan Shemesh slotted home from close range after a deflected cross.

Raanana improved after the break, introducing fresh legs in midfield, but they could not find a way past the Herzliya backline. The decisive second goal came in the 68th minute as Omer Fadida curled a beautiful free-kick over the wall and into the top corner, leaving the goalkeeper with no chance.

Key Moments

• 23' – Shemesh opens the scoring after a rapid break down the right flank.
• 45+1' – Raanana’s best chance: a header from a corner saved well by Herzliya keeper Ben Shlomo.
• 68' – Fadida’s stunning free-kick seals the win.
• 82' – Raanana’s midfielder Roi Zikri sees a long-range effort tipped over the bar.

Tactical Story

Herzliya manager Yossi Zana set his team up in a flexible 4-3-3, with wide attackers pinning Raanana’s full-backs deep. The midfield trio controlled the centre, allowing quick transitions. Raanana, in a 4-4-2, struggled to press effectively and were often caught between lines. Their lack of creativity in the final third was evident, as they managed only two shots on target across 90 minutes.

Standout Players

Omer Fadida was the man of the match, scoring a spectacular goal and dictating play from midfield. At the back, Tom Ahi Mordechai won every aerial duel and provided calm distribution. For Raanana, substitute Yaniv Mizrahi injected energy but could not turn the tide.

Table and Season Impact

The win places Herzliya top of their Toto Cup group with three points and a positive goal difference. The Toto Cup, a pre-season competition for Liga Leumit and Liga Alef clubs, serves as vital preparation for the league season starting in August. Raanana will need to recover quickly in their next group match to keep their knockout hopes alive.