Diya Saba Cleared to Play in Upcoming Derby Against Hapoel Haifa

Key Player Returns

Maccabi Haifa midfielder Diya Saba has completed a full training session and is set to participate in the derby against Hapoel Haifa scheduled for tomorrow at 20:15. This comes as a welcome boost for head coach Barak Bachar, who will be without players Abdoulaye Seck and Dolav Haziza due to accumulation of yellow cards.

Crucial Match for Maccabi Haifa

The green team aims to return to winning ways, as a victory in this match would provide significant stability ahead of the remaining playoff games. The primary goal remains securing a third-place finish, which would guarantee participation in European competition next season. The importance of this goal was emphasized by the club’s sporting director, Gal Alberman, during a recent fans’ meeting attended by CEO Itzik Ovadia. According to fan testimonials from the meeting, Alberman noted, “Securing a spot in Europe will allow us to attract better foreign players.”

Engagement with Supporters

Ovadia also highlighted the vital relationship between the team and its fan base, stating, “Our supporters are the most valuable asset of the club.” Coach Barak Bachar received a warm welcome at the end of the meeting, reflecting the fans’ appreciation despite a disappointing season thus far. Bachar’s past success with the team has fostered hope for improvements in the upcoming season.

Tactical Preparations

In a tactical team meeting, Bachar discussed both positive and negative aspects of the previous match against Beitar Jerusalem, emphasizing the need to minimize defensive errors while relying on a capable forward line. Although the first team lineup was not explicitly rehearsed in yesterday’s training, indications suggest that the coach will opt for an attacking formation, likely featuring captain Lior Rafaelov, Diya Saba, Dean David, and Ksenia Sburina.

Partially recovered Brazilian defender Pedro is also aiming to complete full training to potentially make the squad. Over 8,000 fans have already purchased tickets for the much-anticipated match.

Projected Starting Lineup:

• Goalkeeper: Sharif Kiwi
• Defenders: Roy Elimelech, Oleksandr Sirota, Sean Goldberg, Kenny Saif
• Midfielders: Ali Mohammed, Mahmoud Jaber, Lior Rafaelov, Diya Saba
• Forwards: Dean David, Ksenia Sburina

Bachar concluded, “If the match unfolds like the previous starts, we will win.”

As anticipation builds for the derby, fans remain hopeful for a strong performance from Maccabi Haifa as they strive for a successful conclusion to the season