Maccabi Neve Sha'anan vs Hapoel Tirat HaCarmel Match Recap - Jan 11, 2026

Maccabi Neve Sha'anan Dominates Hapoel Tirat HaCarmel, Solidifying Their Title Chase

Maccabi Neve Sha'anan's 2-0 victory over Hapoel Tirat HaCarmel underscores their relentless pursuit of Liga Alef glory, now sitting firmly in second place with 29 points. This win marks their fourth victory in six matches, showcasing a team that has found its rhythm and is increasingly difficult to contain. The recent form of Hikaf and Bozorgy has been pivotal, with both players contributing significantly to the team's attacking prowess.

Defensively, Maccabi Neve Sha'anan has tightened its grip, conceding only two goals in their last five matches. This defensive solidity was on full display against Hapoel Tirat HaCarmel, who struggled to create meaningful chances throughout the match. The backline, led by Davidovich, has become a fortress, allowing the midfield to control the tempo and dictate play. This balance between defense and attack has been crucial in their recent success.

Hapoel Tirat HaCarmel's plight deepens with this defeat, remaining rooted at the bottom of the table with just nine points. Their recent form is alarming, with ten losses in thirteen matches, highlighting a team in crisis. The absence of consistent goal-scoring threats has left them vulnerable, as evidenced by their inability to find the net in crucial moments. Suissa, who had shown flashes of promise earlier in the season, has been unable to replicate that form, leaving the team searching for answers.

The contrast between Maccabi Neve Sha'anan's upward trajectory and Hapoel Tirat HaCarmel's downward spiral is stark. Maccabi's ability to grind out results, even when not at their best, speaks volumes about their character and ambition. They have managed to secure points through resilience and tactical discipline, which has become a hallmark of their play under pressure.

Recent performances from key players have defined Maccabi Neve Sha'anan's success. Hikaf, who scored in their last match against Hapoel Umm al-Fahm, continues to be a focal point in attack, while Faisal has emerged as a reliable playmaker. Their contributions have not only bolstered the team's confidence but also instilled a winning mentality that is essential for any title contender.

Conversely, Hapoel Tirat HaCarmel must address their glaring deficiencies if they hope to escape the relegation zone. The lack of creativity in midfield has stifled their attacking options, forcing them into a reactive style of play that rarely yields positive results. The red card received late in the match only compounded their frustrations, reflecting a team that is struggling to maintain composure under pressure.

Looking ahead, Maccabi Neve Sha'anan will face Tira next, where they will aim to build on this momentum and further solidify their position near the top of the table. Their current form suggests they are well-equipped to handle the challenge. For Hapoel Tirat HaCarmel, the upcoming match against Tzeirei Umm al-Fahm presents an opportunity for redemption, but they must find a way to convert potential into points.

Reflecting on my pre-match prediction, I anticipated a convincing win for Maccabi Neve Sha'anan, and they delivered just that. Their ability to capitalize on Hapoel Tirat HaCarmel's weaknesses was evident throughout the match. As the season progresses, it will be intriguing to see if Maccabi can maintain this level of performance while Hapoel seeks desperately for a turnaround. The stakes are high as both teams navigate their respective paths in Liga Alef.