Playoff Matchups Continue: Hapoel Haifa Hosts Ironi Kiryat Ata
Upcoming Matches Scheduled
The lower division playoffs will resume on Monday, April 6, 2025. Hapoel Haifa is set to face Ironi Kiryat Ata at the Romema Stadium at 18:30 in a critical clash between two teams that emerged victorious in the previous round.
Hapoel Haifa’s Critical Standpoint
Hapoel Haifa is acutely aware that only a win will prevent them from being officially relegated by the end of the matchday. The team is under pressure to secure points and will field the same roster that triumphed over Haifa in their last encounter. Notably, Taban King will remain sidelined, while the foreign players registered for this match include Liam O’Reilly, Kiandre Cook, Chris Smith, and Silvio de Sousa.
Team Updates
In positive news for Hapoel Haifa, Elijah Pemberton, who missed the last game against Afula due to a knee injury, will be included in the roster and is fit to play. Jakeann Grant, who sustained a leg injury in the previous match, will also be available with limited minutes. Additionally, Matt Coleman is dealing with a hand injury but is expected to participate in the match against Mesgev.
Elitzur Netanya vs. Hapoel Afula
In the second match of the evening, Elitzur Netanya will host Hapoel Afula at the Netanya Arena at 20:50. Elitzur Netanya’s Eric Romero, who did not play in the previous match, is likely to return to the lineup. His absence raised eyebrows within the club as it resulted in 19 offensive rebounds for their oppstartnts, Kiryat Ata.
Afula’s Dilemma
On the other hand, Hapoel Afula’s coach, Ariel Beit Halachmi, is contemplating the return of Jakeob Brown to the squad. Brown was suspended following a conflict during his transfer to Hapoel Tel Aviv, where he threatened to forfeit games if Afula did not permit his move.
These upcoming matchups are critical for both Hapoel Haifa and Hapoel Afula, as they work to secure their positions in the ongoing playoff race. Fans will be eagerly watching to see how these pivotal games unfold