Maccabi Haifa 5–0 Hapoel Kfar Saba: Haifa Cruise in Pre‑Season Friendly

Maccabi Haifa gave their supporters an emphatic show of strength on July 21, 2026, thrashing Hapoel Kfar Saba 5–0 in an international club friendly played at Sammy Ofer Stadium. The Premier League side dominated from start to finish, fielding a mix of established stars and emerging talents as they fine‑tuned their preparations for the upcoming competitive season.

Match Overview

With the new campaign just weeks away, Maccabi Haifa’s head coach used the fixture to test tactical variations and build match sharpness. The opposition, Hapoel Kfar Saba of the Israeli second division, offered a disciplined but ultimately outclassed challenge. Haifa’s relentless attacking play and superior fitness told as the scoreline ballooned.

Key Moments

• 12th minute – Right‑back Daniel Hazan burst into the box and fired a low cross that was turned in by striker Itay Buganim for the opener.
• 29th minute – Winger Hamza Shibli doubled the lead with a sensational curling effort from outside the area.
• 44th minute – Buganim completed his brace, heading home a corner kick to make it 3–0 before the interval.
• 58th minute – Midfielder Ali Mohamed added a fourth with a crisp half‑volley from the edge of the box.
• 74th minute – Substitute Omer Atzili capped the rout, finishing a swift counter‑attack with a delicate chip over the goalkeeper.

Tactical Story

Maccabi Haifa operated in a fluid 4‑3‑3 system that often morphed into a 3‑4‑3 in possession, allowing wing‑backs to push high and create overloads. The midfield trio of Ali Mohamed, Mahmoud Jaber, and Gadi Kinda controlled the tempo, recycling the ball patiently until gaps emerged. Hapoel Kfar Saba, set up in a compact 4‑4‑2, struggled to maintain shape against Haifa’s movement and were frequently pulled out of position. The defensive line was caught in transition several times, leading to clear‑cut chances.

Standout Players

• Itay Buganim (Maccabi Haifa) – The striker looked sharp, scoring twice and leading the press effectively.
• Hamza Shibli (Maccabi Haifa) – Electrifying down the left, he created constant danger and netted a stunning goal.
• Omer Atzili (Maccabi Haifa) – Off the bench, the experienced winger showed quality and composure to add the final flourish.

Friendly Significance

Pre‑season friendlies often demand cautious interpretation, but Maccabi Haifa’s performance was a clear statement of intent. The 5–0 victory gives the coaching staff confidence ahead of the league opener, while Hapoel Kfar Saba will take lessons from the gulf in class as they continue their own preparations. Both sides emerged without major injuries, a primary goal of any friendly encounter.