Maccabi Herzliya vs Kafr Qasim Match Recap - Oct 24, 2025

Late Drama at Netanya: Maccabi Herzliya and Kafr Qasim Settle for a Draw

As the clock ticked toward the end of the match at Netanya Stadium on October 24, 2025, it seemed Maccabi Herzliya was headed for a frustrating defeat against Kafr Qasim. The hosts, who had been so dominant throughout the season, found themselves trailing after a goal from Kafr Qasim in the 77th minute. Yet, in a thrilling twist of fate, Maccabi Herzliya managed to equalize in stoppage time, leaving the match with a 1-1 draw that felt more like a reprieve than a victory.

In the lead-up to the match, I had anticipated a clear victory for Maccabi Herzliya given their strong form, having climbed to second place in Liga Leumit with 20 points. With six wins in their last nine matches, they showcased a potent blend of defensive solidity and attacking flair, bolstered by the presence of players like Omer Atar and Ariel Ben Shimon. I perhaps underestimated the resolve of Kafr Qasim, who arrived in sixth place with 15 points, buoyed by a recent win against Kiryat Yam SC.

The match unfolded against a backdrop of expectation. Kafr Qasim, with their underdog status, proved resilient, defending stoutly against the relentless pressure of Maccabi Herzliya. Their performances had been a mixed bag, but they demonstrated an admirable ability to capitalize on chances. It was Vitor Oliveira who struck first, scoring in the 77th minute after a swift counter-attack caught the Herzliya defense off guard, sending the traveling supporters into a frenzy.

With time running out, Maccabi Herzliya launched an all-out assault, pouring forward in search of an equalizer that seemed increasingly elusive. The tension mounted, but their perseverance paid off when, in the 90th minute, they found the breakthrough. An unmarked player from Maccabi Herzliya struck to level the score, sending a wave of relief through the home crowd that had been bracing for disappointment.

The draw maintained Maccabi Herzliya's grip on second place, now holding 20 points from nine matches, while Kafr Qasim remained in sixth, accumulating a total of 16 points. In a league where each point can prove invaluable, both teams walked away with a valuable lesson in resilience-particularly Maccabi Herzliya, who, if they wish to solidify their title ambitions, must find a way to convert pressure into points more consistently.

Looking ahead, the stakes remain high. Maccabi Herzliya must address their inability to secure victories against lower-ranked teams, while Kafr Qasim will seek to build on their growing momentum, aiming for a more consistent run as they climb the table. The narrative of this season is far from complete, and as both teams reflect on this pulsating draw, they will recognize the need for focus and determination in the contests that lie ahead. The next matchdays will undoubtedly hold more twists and turns in this intriguing Liga Leumit season.