Press Conference Ahead of Match Against Maccabi Tel Aviv
Key Insights from Coach Barak Yitzhaki and Defender Yarden Cohen
In a press conference held this morning, Beitar Jerusalem prepared for their upcoming match against Maccabi Tel Aviv, featuring team coach Barak Yitzhaki and defender Yarden Cohen. This event marked Cohen’s first major press appearance since joining the club, where he expressed his excitement about being part of Beitar Jerusalem.
Yarden Cohen’s Perspective
Cohen opened the discussion by reflecting on his journey to Beitar, emphasizing the significance of being part of such a prestigious club. “I am happy to be here at Beitar Jerusalem,” he stated. “There were several opportunities in the past that didn’t pan out, and I’m glad it’s finally happening now. This is a great club with incredible fans. You feel the power of Beitar Jerusalem even more once you are inside.”
He praised the team’s camaraderie, “The locker room is very cohesive, and the staff prepares us in the best way possible. We are progressing game by game, and by the end of the season, we will know where this journey takes us.”
Regarding competition for places in the starting lineup, Cohen noted, “I have a very good relationship with Mandi, and every top team has competition for positions. I will do everything I can to earn my playing time.”
As for their rival, Cohen recognized the challenge posed by Maccabi Tel Aviv, stating, “They are a very good team. We come to win against every team, on any field. They have a strong squad, and I’m confident they will field their best 11. However, this game won’t define our season, which is still long. We aim to do our best on the field.”
Coach Barak Yitzhaki’s Outlook
Coach Yitzhaki echoed Cohen’s sentiments, emphasizing that the season is still in its early stages, pointing out, “We are just beginning the season, and it’s only the ninth round. No single win or loss will define our season. From our last match against Be’er Sheva, there were many positive takeaways-how we reacted to the game after conceding a goal and the opportunities we created.”
Yitzhaki also spoke about Maccabi Tel Aviv’s depth, acknowledging, “They have a very deep squad and rely on it for games like this. I’m sure they will be well-prepared.” Addressing injuries to players Yarin Levi and Luka Gdarni, he remarked, “I focus on the quality players I have available and do not think their absence will harm us. Sure, Levi is a significant player, but others need to step up and maintain the team’s momentum.”
Despite being aware that many fans will be supportive of Maccabi Tel Aviv in the stadium, Yitzhaki reassured that the Beitar fans’ presence will still be felt: “The stadium will be full, with most of the crowd rooting for Maccabi Tel Aviv, but our fans will be there, and we hear them everywhere. We know the boost and power we receive from them.”
Season Aspirations
When questistartd about the team’s aspirations for the current season, Yitzhaki clarified, “We have not claimed we are shooting for the championship. Dreams are start thing, and actions are another. The reality is that we are in a process of progression and recovery, especially with the style of play that aligns with the DNA of this club. We see the fans’ enthusiasm, and it’s significant. In every stadium we’ve played, there have been thousands cheering, which is exceptional, and the team is heading in a good direction. To the essence of the question-a championship has not been part of our discussion from the start of this season.”
As Beitar Jerusalem gears up for a significant clash on Sunday against Maccabi Tel Aviv, both players and fans remain hopeful for a successful outcome.