The right-wing team from Jerusalem, Beitar Jerusalem, recorded an impressive 2-1 away victory over Maccabi Haifa at Sammy Ofer Stadium. From the outset, it was clear this would be a crucial road test for both sides, with the winner expected to carry momentum forward. By passing it, Beitar Jerusalem have clearly positioned themselves as serious contenders in the title race.
Who at Beitar Jerusalem is avoiding official talk of a title?
Head coach Barak Itzhaki, who deserves significant credit for Beitar Jerusalem’s recent progress in the Israeli top flight, instructed his players after the match to avoid public declarations about a championship. Still, the victory itself felt like a statement. Maccabi Haifa arrived unbeaten in seven matches, including three home wins. Beitar Jerusalem were not intimidated, because they know what they are capable of.
This season, many things are finally coming together. The supporters have delivered displays rarely seen before. Owner Barak Abramov chose to go with the stands rather than try to educate them, allowing positive energy to flow from the terraces to the pitch. Abramov, who grew up as a Beitar Jerusalem supporter, has turned major matches into tributes to club legends such as Uri Malmilian and Eli Ohana. The crowd responded, and now the club is reaping the rewards.
Itzhaki, completing his second year in charge, understands Beitar Jerusalem’s attacking DNA. That understanding is reflected in his substitutions, especially this week with the introduction of young Ziv Ben Shimol, a move that delivered what may be the most important and impressive victory of the season so far.
Even when key players are unavailable, the impact is minimal. Omer Atzili remains influential, Dor Micha is ready when needed, and Jordan Shua can contribute even from the bench. Beitar Jerusalem are no longer dependent on any single player, a critical factor in a title challenge.
What is championship luck – and does Beitar Jerusalem have it?
If all that were not enough, the luck of champions now appears to be on Beitar Jerusalem’s side. For a second consecutive week, the team scored the decisive goal after the 90th minute, deep into stoppage time, once again in a critical match. The previous occasion came at home against Bnei Sakhnin.
All of this fuels hope that the upcoming January transfer window battle between Alona Barkat of Hapoel Be’er Sheva and Abramov will not reshuffle the cards. For Beitar Jerusalem’s black-and-yellow supporters, who have long felt they deserve it, a seventh league title is no longer a distant dream.
