Full Breakdown
Hapoel Tel Aviv Ends 12-Year Derby Drought with Dramatic Victory
1/30/2026, 10:55:58 AM
Historic Match Overview
Hapoel Tel Aviv achieved a significant milestone by defeating their city rivals Maccabi Tel Aviv 2-1 in a dramatic Tel Aviv derby on January 26, 2026. This victory marked Hapoel's first win over Maccabi in 4,293 days, ending a nearly 12-year drought that had seen Maccabi dominate the rivalry with 25 wins and five draws in their previous 30 encounters.
Match Highlights
The match unfolded at Bloomfield Stadium, where Maccabi initially took the lead with a goal from Dor Peretz in the first half. However, the game took a thrilling turn in stoppage time. In the 91st minute, Hapoel's Omri Altman equalized with a powerful header, igniting celebrations among the Hapoel supporters. Shortly after, Chico Alves scored the winning goal, confirmed by VAR, sealing an unexpected comeback for Hapoel. The victory led to jubilant scenes, with fans celebrating for hours both inside the stadium and in nearby venues.
Key Figures
Elyaniv Barda, Hapoel's head coach, played a crucial role in this victory. Having taken over the team in the middle of the previous season, Barda aimed to restore Hapoel's competitive edge. His leadership has been pivotal in guiding the team from the second-division Leumit League back to the Premier League and now breaking the long-standing derby curse. Barda's calm demeanor and strategic acumen have earned him the trust of both players and fans.
Official Statements & Responses
Following the match, Barda expressed pride in his team's resilience and ability to overcome adversity. He acknowledged the significance of the victory for the club and its supporters, stating, "This win is a testament to our hard work and belief in each other." The victory was also a turning point for Maccabi, leading to the dismissal of their head coach less than 24 hours later, highlighting the intense pressure and expectations surrounding the club.
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the jubilant atmosphere for Hapoel, Maccabi's management faced scrutiny following the defeat. Critics pointed to the team's inability to maintain their lead and the tactical decisions made during the match. The loss raised questions about Maccabi's direction and the effectiveness of their coaching staff, particularly in high-stakes situations.
What's Next
Hapoel Tel Aviv aims to build on this momentum as they continue their season in the Premier League, focusing on improving consistency and competing for higher standings. Meanwhile, Maccabi Tel Aviv will need to regroup and reassess their strategies as they navigate the aftermath of this significant defeat.
This derby victory not only signifies a turning point for Hapoel Tel Aviv but also reshapes the dynamics of the Tel Aviv football rivalry, bringing renewed hope and excitement to their supporters.
