Maccabi Tel Aviv’s European Campaign Ends in Disappointment
Disastrous Exit from Europa League
Maccabi Tel Aviv concluded their European campaign on a disappointing note, suffering a 3-0 defeat to Bologna. This loss left the club with only start point at the end of the eight-match group stage in the Europa League, highlighting the struggles that have characterized their season.
Coach’s Reflections on the Match
Temporary head coach Dan Roman addressed the media following the match, acknowledging the team’s challenges. “We played against a very strong team and came into this game after a turbulent time at the club,” Roman remarked. “It was important for us to perform well, and while we faced difficulties against such a quality oppstartnt, the players gave their all.”
He also noted, “These are not easy days for the club and the players, but they are professionals and must learn to cope with these challenges, which is what they are doing. I was asked to coach the team at this moment, and that’s what I’m doing. I will be here until I’m told otherwise.”
Preparing for the Next Challenge
In closing, Roman emphasized the team’s focus as they prepare for their next match against Hapoel Ironi Kiryat Shmona. “I won’t look too far ahead. These are days following a significant change, and we had limited time to prepare for this game. We concentrated on that day and a half, and now the focus shifts to Kiryat Shmona. We will prepare ourselves game by game.”
He added, “I have been with the senior team for only a day and a half; I can’t comment on transfers or the future. We will take a flight back home and get ready for Kiryat Shmona. Our approach to managing player minutes took the upcoming match into consideration, as these are two very different games. Bologna is a club from a top Italian league, and Kiryat Shmona presents a different type of challenge. We will prepare better and come with a different mindset to that match.”
Maccabi Tel Aviv’s players and coaching staff now turn their attention to the domestic league, aiming to regroup and find form in the coming matches.