"This team has a special character": Elyaniv Barda won twice

"In every game, the goal is to win. We took into account that if we were eliminated, it would be part of the situation regarding our match load and success in Europe so far, but this team has a special character, and that is true for the entire squad," Hapoel Tel Aviv staff summarized following their 1:2 victory in the Toto Cup semi-final against Ironi Kiryat Shmona.

The "Reds" were anxious about the match in the 24 hours leading up to kickoff. During the final training session, Elyaniv Barda assessed the players' physical condition, consulted with the medical staff, and decided to implement a wide rotation despite the importance of the semi-final.

Eight new players entered the lineup: Shahar Piven, Amit Lemkin, El-Yam Kanzpolsky, Tal Archel, Yonatan Farber, Mor Buskila, Xande Silva, and Daniel Dappa. Hapoel Tel Aviv struggled at times but achieved their goal, gaining valuable squad depth for the long season ahead.

"Two players worthy of mention are Kanzpolsky and Dappa—two whom the crowd had already written off, but the resilience of the system and professional patience kept them strong."

Kanzpolsky delivered perhaps his best performance for Hapoel Tel Aviv, showing great interceptions, ball movement, and involvement in a goal. Dappa is still young, and his development will have ups and downs, but a winning brace in the final minutes is exactly what he needed for his confidence. Perhaps this will help him overcome the mental block he has faced over the last year.

Xande Silva is struggling to function under the weight of rumors, his move to the bench, and the crowd's sentiment. It is no secret that Hapoel Tel Aviv is exploring options for the left wing, and he is losing his place game by game. Douglas Owusu added sharpness to the front line during his minutes on the pitch and was involved in Dappa's goal. Regarding him, the club noted: "He needs time to get into shape and find his place; there is a lot of patience."