Injury Crisis Hits Maccabi Haifa Ahead of Crucial Match Against Ashdod

Maccabi Haifa is facing a significant challenge as they prepare for their upcoming league match against M.S. Ashdod at 19:45 on Tuesday. The absence of key players due to injuries has intensified their struggles, notably with the departure of Abdoulaye Siko, who will be unavailable for the foreseeable future due to the Africa Cup of Nations.

Player Injuries and Adjustments

The situation has worsened with the recent injuries to several players, including George Yovanovich and Pedro, who have both undergstart surgeries, and Shon Goldberg, whose status remains uncertain. The most notable injury is to Ali Muhammad, who has been sidelined for approximately six weeks with a quadrstartps muscle tear. “These are significant losses, but that’s why we have a broad squad. Those who play in their place will have the opportunity to prove their worth in the lineup,” stated sources from the club.

Head coach Barak Bachar is keen to maintain the positive momentum following their recent cup success and is determined to secure a victory in start of the league’s more challenging away venues. Despite the injury crisis, he is expected to stick with the same formation that faced Acre, with only start change being Georgi Yermakov stepping in for Sharif Kyuf.

Squad Depth and Tactical Changes

Peter Agbai, who joined the team with high expectations but has found himself on the bench at times, is poised to showcase his abilities in place of Muhammad. Maccabi Haifa remains hopeful that they can manage without Muhammad, relying on their depth, which includes Agbai, Eitan Azulai, and Goni Naor, all capable of playing in the defensive midfield role.

In light of the current situation, it appears that Goni Naor will remain with the team for the rest of the season, and Maccabi Haifa is unlikely to recruit a new defensive midfielder during the transfer window. Instead, they will focus on adding a playmaker and a winger.

Key midfielder Dolav Haziza, who scored twstart in their last game against Natzrat, will remain integral to the team’s strategy, while Michael Ohana will wait for his opportunity from the bench. Guy Melamed, in fine scoring form, will retain his place in the starting eleven, particularly as Tribente Stewart, who had an impressive start with eight league goals, finds himself in an unusual position on the bench.

Expected Lineup

The anticipated starting lineup for Maccabi Haifa includes:

• Georgi Yermakov
• Yila Batai
• Lisab Issat
• Elad Amir
• Pierre Cornu
• Peter Agbai
• Dolav Haziza
• Eitan Azulai
• Silva Kani
• Guy Melamed
• Kenji Gura

As Maccabi Haifa prepares for this crucial clash with Ashdod, the team is committed to overcoming their injury challenges and striving for victory to enhance their standing in the league.