Moshe Onana Recalls Disallowed Goal Against Iran and Maccabi Jaffa Legacy
Legendary Israeli striker Moshe Onana reflects on his stellar career with Maccabi Jaffa and the national team, recalling a disallowed goal in Tehran and his rich football legacy.
Every Monday, legendary Maccabi Tel Aviv striker Moshe Onana gathers with his former teammates at his bakery to reminisce about Israel's golden era of football. At 76, Onana remains a humble figure, fondly remembering his roots, his rise through Maccabi Jaffa, and his legendary career.
Reflecting on his early days, Onana recalls making his senior debut at just 16 under coach Itzhak Schneor, scoring against Maccabi Tel Aviv. Over 16 seasons with Maccabi Jaffa and three with Bnei Yehuda, he scored 114 and 12 goals respectively, leading Jaffa to three runner-up finishes in the 1960s and 1970s.
Onana also starred for the Israel national team, scoring 8 goals in 14 appearances and finishing as top scorer in the 1974 World Cup qualifiers. However, his international career ended abruptly following the Asian Games in Tehran.
Recalling the controversial final against Iran, Onana stated: "The referee disallowed a goal I scored against Iran in Tehran because he was afraid of the crazy crowd." Frustrated by his treatment under coach Divid Schweitzer, who repeatedly substituted him, Onana decided to retire from international duty.
Today, Onana spends his time running his bakery, enjoying traditional Bulgarian family dinners, and cherishing memories of his beloved Maccabi Jaffa, a club that defined his legendary career.
