The match between the right-wing club from Jerusalem, Beitar Jerusalem, and Hapoel Tel Aviv (Thursday, 8:30 pm, Teddy Stadium, Israel time) is a point of no return. Beitar must win to remain in the title race, with any dropped points likely to come at a heavy cost. The championship battle is tight and unforgiving, with no room for mistakes as Hapoel Be’er Sheva and Maccabi Tel Aviv show no intention of stepping aside.
This, then, is a defining character test for Beitar. The talent is clear, but the real question is whether the squad has the mental strength required for the moment. Titles are decided as much in the mind as on the pitch. It will not be easy, but any team chasing a championship must prove maturity under pressure.
Why is Beitar Jerusalem vs Hapoel Tel Aviv always such a volatile fixture?
The history between Beitar Jerusalem and Hapoel Tel Aviv is well known. Decades of deep hostility and uncompromising animosity between sections of the fan bases, even as relations between the clubs themselves remain largely professional, and at times even cordial. This week, a song attributed to Hapoel Tel Aviv supporters circulated on social media, featuring harsh and tragic language directed at Beitar.
Either way, the players understand that disappointing the crowd in this fixture is not an option. At the same time, that pressure can sometimes undermine performance. Still, professional footballers earning millions are expected to cope.
This is where the yellow-and-black crowd comes into play. A powerful show of support can decide the match. Beitar’s fans should be clear about this – the atmosphere is in their hands.
Do Beitar Jerusalem’s stars give them the edge on the pitch?
On the pitch, the balance of power clearly favors Beitar. The squad includes players considered above league level, such as Omer Atzili and Yarden Shua, capable of deciding a match with one or two decisive actions. Atzili’s brilliant goal last Saturday against Ironi Tiberias in the cup, which secured a place in the next round, underlined that quality.
That cutting edge makes Beitar the clear favorite. Hapoel Tel Aviv, however, remain a combative side that refuses to give in. They have quick and creative players, including Luizes Luizão, but a squad built largely from new signings has yet to fully gel, and the pressure to deliver results can take its toll. Beitar appear well placed to claim another victory and continue their push for the title. Above all, the hope is for a sporting contest – and that the tension in the stands does not spiral out of control or spill onto the pitch.
16.9.2025 –
