National League Round 17 Kicks Off with Action-Packed Matches
The National League’s 17th round commenced last Friday and continues today, featuring several intriguing matches. Notably, the orange derby in Tel Aviv at the stadium in the Tikvat HaShabbat neighborhood sees Kfar Shalem facing off against Bnei Yehuda. In addition, MS Kiryat Yam hosts Hapoel Nof HaGalil while Hapoel Hadera visits Ironi Modiin.
Kfar Shalem vs. Bnei Yehuda: Match Highlights
The clash between Hapoel Kfar Shalem and Bnei Yehuda concluded with a decisive 3-0 victory for Bnei Yehuda. Both teams have struggled with consistency this season; however, Bnei Yehuda, under coach Yaron Hohenboim, has shown improvement with two wins in their last five matches. In contrast, Kfar Shalem has only four victories since the start of the 2025/26 season.
Pre-Match Tribute
Before the game, a tribute was held in memory of Yossi Sharabi, who was tragically killed on October 7. The ceremony included family members and Sharabi’s brother, who has returned from Hamas captivity. Fireworks were launched outside the stadium, while a smoke grenade was also thrown in the spectator area of Bnei Yehuda.
Scoring Summary
- 4th Minute: Bnei Yehuda took an early lead at 1-0 with an impressive strike from Dani Amar.
- 18th Minute: Bnei Yehuda doubled their advantage to 2-0 after a defensive error from Kfar Shalem allowed Viktor Stina to score.
- 30th Minute: A third goal for Bnei Yehuda came when Arad Bar’s long-range shot deflected off Kfar Shalem’s defense, increasing their lead to 3-0.
The victory propels Bnei Yehuda into a stronger position in the league standings while leaving Kfar Shalem in a precarious situation regarding relegation.
MS Kiryat Yam vs. Hapoel Nof HaGalil: A Thrilling Draw
The match between MS Kiryat Yam and Hapoel Nof HaGalil ended in a 2-2 draw. Kiryat Yam aimed to secure back-to-back victories after their recent win over Hapoel Ra’anana, while Nof HaGalil, currently at the bottom of the table, was riding a wave of positive momentum with two draws and a win in their recent outings.
Scoring Summary
- 12th Minute: Nof HaGalil took a 1-0 lead with a close-range goal from Dolav Azulai after a mistake by Kiryat Yam’s goalkeeper.
- 18th Minute: Magid Dachla scored a stunning goal from distance, doubling Nof HaGalil’s advantage to 2-0.
- 63rd Minute: Kiryat Yam clawed back into the game with a goal from Emmanuel Afaa, making it 2-1.
- 75th Minute: A poor clearance by Nof HaGalil’s keeper allowed Afaa to score again, completing a brace and equalizing the match at 2-2.
Ironi Modiin vs. Hapoel Hadera: A Narrow Win for the Hosts
In the match between Ironi Modiin and Hapoel Hadera, the home team secured a narrow 1-0 victory. Modiin had not tasted victory in three matches and sought to change their fortune against Hadera, who has struggled significantly this season.
Scoring Summary
- 33rd Minute: Tomer Benvenisti scored a brilliant goal, giving Ironi Modiin a 1-0 lead and helping them avoid being embroiled in relegation battles.
The stakes in the National League remain high as teams strive to secure crucial points in their quests for success and survival.