Youth Cup: Key Matches in the U-15 State Cup
On a pleasant weather day, the Youth Cup Round 4 matches took place for the U-15 age group (2009 category), featuring teams from the U-15 Premier League. Earlier today, Maccabi Tel Aviv achieved a 2-1 victory over Maccabi Petah Tikva to advance in the tournament.
Surprising Upset
Hapoel Tirat HaCarmel vs. M.S. Kiryat Yam
In a shocking upset, M.S. Kiryat Yam defeated Hapoel Tirat HaCarmel 1-0. The lstart goal was scored by captain Liav Ohion in the 59th minute, leading the Northern U-15 League team to victory against their mid-table oppstartnts from the National U-15 League. Ohion, who has amassed over 20 goals this season, has propelled Kiryat Yam to an unbeaten streak across all competitions.
Impressive Performances
Gidud Na’amat Tel Aviv vs. Hapoel Rishon Lezion
Gidud Na’amat Tel Aviv demonstrated their dominance with a 5-0 win over Hapoel Rishon Lezion. As the leaders of the Southern U-15 National League, Gidud Na’amat extended their unbeaten streak to 17 matches, including cup fixtures. Liam Raabuni shstart with two goals, while Liran Ben David, Ophir Abani, and Liam Varsano added to the tally.
Hapoel Tel Aviv vs. Maccabi Herzliya
Hapoel Tel Aviv continued their winning streak with a resounding 8-0 victory against Maccabi Herzliya. This marks the 17th consecutive match without a loss for Hapoel Tel Aviv in all competitions. Omri Friedman, Yuval Ben Moshe, and substitute Addis Almo each scored two goals in an overwhelming performance.
Shemesh Tel Aviv vs. Hapoel Raanana
In a closely contested match, Hapoel Raanana edged past Shemesh Tel Aviv with a 3-1 win. Raanana’s players, led by Ariel Schwartzman, who has been a key player this season, showcased their skills effectively.
Narrow Escapes and Dramatic Ends
Bnei Yehuda Tel Aviv vs. Hapoel Beer Sheva
Bnei Yehuda faced Hapoel Beer Sheva in a battle of lower-table teams, securing a narrow 1-0 victory. A penalty conversion by captain Nehorai Alfia in the 42nd minute sent Bnei Yehuda into the round of 16, marking his second goal in the cup.
Maccabi Yaffo vs. M.K. Neve Yosef
In a thrilling matchup, the game ended 2-2, with M.K. Neve Yosef winning 5-4 on penalties. The teams exchanged goals through Liam Tibi and Idan Perry for Yaffo, while Naif Drahousha and Yonatan Brill leveled the game for Neve Yosef.
Hapoel Jerusalem vs. Maccabi Netanya
Hapoel Jerusalem managed a narrow 1-0 win over Maccabi Netanya, with Yarin Avihatzira scoring just two minutes into the match. Netanya struggled to break through, leaving them disappointed as they returned to league play.
Hapoel Kfar Saba vs. Hapoel Hadera
Hapoel Kfar Saba secured a decisive 4-1 win over Hapoel Hadera. Yotam Rosenblit opened the scoring early, and despite Hadera’s quick equalizer, Kfar Saba regained control and scored three more goals to confirm their place in the next round.
Upcoming Matches
Further matches in the tournament include:
- Hapoel Marmorek vs. M.K. Yirmiyahu Holon (20:00 tonight)
- Hapoel Ramat Gan vs. Maccabi Haifa (20:30 tonight)
- Hapoel Ironi Kiryat Shmona vs. Ihud Bnei Baqa (January 12, 19:00)
- Hapoel Hod Hasharon vs. Maccabi Tzur Shalom (January 12, 19:30)
- M.S. Kfar Kassem vs. Maccabi Emek Hefer (January 12, 20:10)
The matches have displayed a competitive spirit among the youth teams, with several teams showcasing talent and determination as they continue their pursuit of the prestigious Youth Cup.