Maccabi Petah Tikva Faces Key Absences Ahead of Match Against Hapoel Ramat Gan

Recent Success and Current Standings

Following a convincing victory over Hapoel Kfar Saba in the last matchday, Maccabi Petah Tikva finds itself in a promising position. With rival teams in the upper tier of the league dropping points, Maccabi can open a significant 12-point gap over the third place if they secure a win against Hapoel Ramat Gan at home tomorrow.

Key Player Absences

However, head coach Noam Shoham will be without three of his central players: Liran Hazan, Josa Cortes, and Franck Ribouleau, who will each serve a suspension due to accumulating five yellow cards. In contrast, defenders Muhammad Hindi and Ben Havaze, who also missed the last match for the same reason, will return to the lineup.

Hindi is expected to replace Hadar Fox in the starting eleven, while Havaze may remain on the bench. In the attacking front, Samuel Owusu will return to the lineup in place of Hazan, alongside Ayil Inbrum and Muhammad Hatib, who will also start.

Coach’s Perspective

Noam Shoham acknowledged the challenges ahead, stating, “We respect every team in this league and understand that no match is easy. We have a quality squad with hungry players who deserve game time. We will come in humble and committed, as that is what has brought us to our current position. Ramat Gan is a well-coached team, but we aim to continue our positive momentum.”

Projected Starting Lineup

• Goalkeeper: Marco Wolf
• Defenders: Omer Shirazi, Itay Tibi, Muhammad Hindi, Aviv Salem
• Midfielders: Ido Cohen, Niv Yehoshua, Ayil Inbrum
• Forwards: Samuel Owusu, Idan Dahan, Muhammad Hatib

Maccabi Petah Tikva’s upcoming match promises competitive action as the team looks to maintain its lead and continue its strong performance this season.