Maccabi Tel Aviv Edge Past Sheriff Tiraspol 1-0 in UEFA Europa League First Leg

A solitary goal was enough for Maccabi Tel Aviv to secure a 1-0 home victory over Sheriff Tiraspol in the UEFA Europa League on July 31, 2026. The result gives the Israeli side a slender advantage heading into the return leg in Moldova.

Match Report

In a tightly contested match, Maccabi Tel Aviv dominated possession but found Sheriff Tiraspol's defense well organized. The breakthrough came in the 38th minute when a quick one-two on the edge of the box opened up space for the Maccabi striker to slot the ball past the goalkeeper. Sheriff had few clear chances but threatened on the counter, with one effort hitting the post in the second half.

The second half saw Maccabi sit deeper to protect their lead, inviting pressure from Sheriff. The Moldovan champions pushed for an equalizer but were met by stout defending and excellent goalkeeping. Maccabi's goalkeeper made three vital saves to preserve the clean sheet, ensuring his team takes a positive result into the away leg.

Key Moments

• 38' – Maccabi Tel Aviv score after a beautiful combination play in the final third.
• 67' – Sheriff hit the post with a powerful drive from distance.
• 82' – Maccabi's goalkeeper makes a crucial save to deny a close-range header.

Player Ratings

• Maccabi Tel Aviv's goalkeeper (8/10): Commanding performance, crucial saves.
• Maccabi's goalscorer (7/10): Took his chance well and worked hard without the ball.
• Sheriff's midfield engine (7/10): Covered ground tirelessly but lacked final product.

European Implications

Maccabi Tel Aviv will be satisfied with the clean sheet and the narrow win. Sheriff Tiraspol will feel they can overturn the deficit at home, especially if they can replicate their counter-attacking threat. The second leg promises to be another tactical battle, with Maccabi needing to stay disciplined to progress in the UEFA Europa League.