Maccabi Kiryat Gat vs Dimona Match Recap - Jan 16, 2026

Maccabi Kiryat Gat Dominates Dimona, Solidifying Title Aspirations

Maccabi Kiryat Gat's 3-1 victory over Dimona not only extends their unbeaten streak to 15 matches but also reinforces their position at the top of Liga Alef (South) with a commanding 39 points. This match showcased their relentless pursuit of the title, as they continue to assert dominance over their rivals. The early response to Dimona's opening goal set the tone for a match that highlighted Kiryat Gat's attacking prowess and tactical superiority.

Hadad emerged as a key figure once again, scoring early to level the match and continuing his impressive form from previous outings. His ability to find the net consistently has been pivotal for Kiryat Gat, who have now scored 12 goals in their last five matches. The team's offensive strategy, characterized by fluid transitions and aggressive ball control, was on full display as they quickly turned the tide after conceding.

Dimona's recent form had been commendable, with three wins in their last five matches, but this defeat exposes cracks in their defensive setup. The red card issued to Gamoun in the 59th minute compounded their struggles, leaving them vulnerable against a Kiryat Gat side that thrives on exploiting numerical advantages. Dimona's reliance on counter-attacks faltered as they faced a relentless barrage from Kiryat Gat, who maintained pressure throughout the match.

Bozaglo and Mishali added to Kiryat Gat's tally, showcasing the depth of their squad and the variety in their attacking options. Bozaglo's goal marked a continuation of his impactful performances, while Mishali's late strike sealed the deal, emphasizing Kiryat Gat's ability to score at crucial moments. This match further cements their status as title favorites, with an average of 2.4 goals per game over their last five fixtures.

Dimona's struggles were evident in their inability to maintain composure after taking an early lead. Despite Bitton's goal giving them hope, they failed to capitalize on their momentum. The defensive lapses that allowed Kiryat Gat to equalize and then take control were indicative of a team under pressure. Their average of 1.4 expected goals per match suggests they have been effective in front of goal but lack the defensive solidity needed to compete with the league leaders.

The head-to-head history between these teams adds another layer of complexity to this rivalry. Kiryat Gat's earlier 5-0 victory this season loomed large over Dimona, and today's result only deepens that psychological edge. The narrative of revenge was overshadowed by Kiryat Gat's relentless pursuit of excellence, leaving Dimona with more questions than answers as they prepare for their next fixture against Shimshon Tel Aviv.

Looking ahead, Maccabi Kiryat Gat will face Holon Yermiyahu next, where they will aim to continue their winning streak and solidify their title aspirations further. Dimona must regroup quickly if they hope to remain competitive in the title race; their upcoming match will be crucial for restoring confidence and momentum.

This match serves as a stark reminder of the gap between the top two teams in Liga Alef (South). Maccabi Kiryat Gat is not just winning; they are doing so with style and authority, while Dimona must confront the reality of their current standing and find ways to improve if they wish to challenge for the title. The stakes are high, and with each passing match, the pressure mounts for both teams as they navigate this critical phase of the season.