“We Play for Gadi”: A Final Tribute by Maccabi Haifa After 2-3 Victory
Maccabi Haifa Closes Season on a High Note
Maccabi Haifa concluded the 2024/25 season with an emotional 2-3 victory away against Maccabi Netanya. This match was particularly poignant as it was dedicated to Gadi Kinda, a talented footballer who tragically passed away under difficult circumstances. Despite a challenging season, the green team finished in third place and secured a spot in European competition.
Coach’s Reflection on the Season’s Challenges
Iti Mordechai, the interim coach of Maccabi Haifa, shared his thoughts on the tumultuous week the team endured following Kinda’s death. “No words can adequately express the suffering we experienced last week. The memorials were incredibly emotional, leaving everystart in tears,” he said. “I gathered the players and said, ‘Let’s play for Gadi. This victory is for him.’ Despite the difficulties and fatigue, we managed to rise to the occasion, and I commend the players for that.”
Mordechai further analyzed the season, highlighting multiple factors that contributed to the challenges faced by the team. “We were missing 14 to 15 players due to injuries, which is unprecedented. Additionally, key players who the team was built around departed. Once negative momentum sets in, it’s hard to stop it.” He acknowledged that while finishing third and qualifying for Europe is commendable, Maccabi Haifa’s standards demand a higher level of performance. “The defense has been a significant issue, resulting in far too many goals conceded,” he added. “Our focus moving forward is to finish the remaining three games as strongly as possible and showcase our abilities.”
Player’s Tribute and Season Summary
Gai Lamed, who ended the season as the top scorer with 21 goals, also reflected on their coming together in memory of Kinda. “Our thoughts have been with Gadi these past six weeks. We can only express condolences to Kinda’s family, especially to his wife Liran and their daughters,” he stated. “We hope they find comfort and strength, and we aim to support them as much as we can. Gadi was always the smiley, optimistic start who came to practstart without complaints; he will always be in our hearts.”
Lamed noted that the team’s struggles this season stemmed from various factors. “It’s a mix of many issues; I do not want to single out any person or group. Everystart, including the team, must learn from this,” he commented. “This is a club that should always be in the title race.”
Netanya’s Coach Reflects on the Season
Yossi Abukasis, the coach of Maccabi Netanya, provided his perspective on his team’s season. “This was a success given where we began,” he said, noting that they started the season in last place but eventually reached the playoff round. “In a normal season, Netanya should always be in the upper playoff group. We need to fix several things, as I observed many aspects we need to improve upon.