OFI Crete FC secured an impressive 2-0 away victory over Hapoel Beer Sheva in the UEFA Europa League on 6 November 2026, combining solid defending with two well-taken goals at crucial moments.

Hapoel Beer Sheva expected a strong home performance, but OFI Crete frustrated the Israeli side with a compact block and dangerous counter-attacks. The Greek visitors scored in the first half and added a second after the break to take full control of the contest.

Match overview

The home side began with energy and pushed forward in search of an early goal. Hapoel Beer Sheva’s midfield tried to dictate tempo, but OFI Crete’s midfield pressed aggressively and denied clean passing lanes into the final third. The visitors were happy to let Hapoel circulate the ball in harmless areas before springing forward.

OFI’s opener arrived midway through the first half. A quick turnover in midfield released Thiago Nuss, who drove into the box and finished with a low effort beyond the goalkeeper. The goal changed the mood inside the stadium and forced Hapoel to take more risks before half-time.

Key moments

• 12th minute: Hapoel Beer Sheva’s first corner caused brief panic, but OFI’s goalkeeper punched clear under pressure.
• 27th minute: OFI Crete took the lead through Thiago Nuss after a swift counter-attack.
• 41st minute: Hapoel’s best chance of the first half ended with a header that cleared the crossbar.
• 58th minute: OFI doubled the advantage when Marko Bakić arrived late in the box and converted a cut-back.
• 76th minute: Hapoel pushed bodies forward, but OFI’s centre-backs defended the penalty area with authority.

Tactical story

OFI Crete’s game plan was built on defensive discipline and quick transitions. Their midfield stayed compact, forcing Hapoel to play wide, and their full-backs were aggressive in closing down crosses. When possession was won, OFI looked to move the ball forward immediately rather than settle into prolonged passing sequences.

Hapoel Beer Sheva dominated the ball for long stretches but struggled to create clear openings. Their final ball was often hurried, and when they did find space in the box, OFI’s goalkeeper was well placed. The second goal was particularly damaging because it arrived just as the home side had begun to build momentum after half-time.

Standout players

Thiago Nuss set the tone with the opening goal and remained a threat on the break. Marko Bakić controlled the midfield and capped his performance with the second goal. At the back, OFI’s central defensive pairing dealt with Hapoel’s aerial threat and helped preserve a deserved clean sheet.

For Hapoel Beer Sheva, the midfield worked hard to keep the team moving forward, but the attacking line lacked the sharpness needed to break down a well-organised defence.

League phase impact

The three points give OFI Crete a strong platform in the Europa League league phase and underline their ability to win away from home. Hapoel Beer Sheva remain with work to do, especially in attack, after a night when their possession did not translate into goals.