Maccabi Tel Aviv Prepares for Semifinal Clash Against Hapoel Holon
Maccabi Tel Aviv will kick off its semifinal series against Hapoel Holon tomorrow (Monday, 20:50) at the Menora Mivtachim Arena, following a nearly two-week break after their quarterfinal series against Ironi Ness Ziona. The team held its final training session today, with player Hasi’el Ribero showing encouraging signs of recovery and return.
Coach’s Insights on the Break and Player Readiness
Head coach Oded Katsch expressed mixed feelings about the lengthy break, indicating uncertainty about its impact on the team’s performance. “It’s hard to know if this break will hurt us or help us. It depends on the players,” Katsch noted. “While a break was necessary, it feels like the management may have overdstart it a bit. It’s not ideal, but we will see how we respond. The players are eager to get started after ten days of waiting.”
Katsch also mentistartd the potential return of Ribero, asserting his importance to the team. “There’s certainly a consideration to bring him back. He is a significant player for us, and we re-evaluate his condition after every practstart,” he stated.
Previous Encounter with Hapoel Holon
Referring to the last matchup against Holon, Katsch highlighted the team’s need for improvement, stating, “Holon is a dangerous team. We were lucky to win the last game against them. They grabbed 20 offensive rebounds and were much more aggressive than we were. I hope for a different story tomorrow.”
Addressing Fitness and Game Readiness
Regarding the long pause, Katsch acknowledged the challenges of replicating game conditions in practstart. “No matter how hard we try to simulate games or game situations, it’s never quite the same as the real thing. I am sure there will be moments when the break will be felt, but we will strive to overcome that quickly,” he added.
Anticipating Fan Support
The atmosphere at the Menora Mivtachim Arena is expected to be electric, and Katsch emphasized the importance of fan support. “After the chaotic years we’ve been through, the crowd is something we’ve missed the most. Everystart who has followed, participated, or viewed knows that Maccabi Tel Aviv is looking forward to these days,” he expressed. “I hope for a great atmosphere tomorrow because we really need it.”
As Maccabi Tel Aviv prepares for this crucial semifinal matchup, the focus remains on teamwork, recovery, and maintaining the momentum essential for success on the court.