Huge satisfaction at Maccabi Tel Aviv: Miller's choice is proving itself
The dominant performance in Moldova has reinforced the belief that the Scottish coach is the right man for the job. The players deserve credit for putting the team in a commanding position for the next round. Blic will undergo medical tests upon arrival, while the situation regarding Asante remains unchanged.
There is huge satisfaction at Maccabi Tel Aviv following the team's tremendous 5:0 victory over Sheriff Tiraspol in Moldova yesterday (Thursday). The five goals scored turn the return leg next Thursday at Maccabi Tel Aviv's home stadium in Batumi, Georgia, into a mere formality. It is difficult to imagine how Maccabi Tel Aviv could lose their ticket to the third round after such a convincing performance.
Many factors contributed to this dream start for the Cup holders, who are looking to secure a third consecutive year in the Europa League. However, most of the credit this morning goes to coach Kenny Miller, who prepared the team brilliantly once again. A significant element credited to him was the decision to stick with the same starting lineup that played eight days ago at Turner Stadium in the Champion of Champions Cup final.
The Scottish coach could have looked toward players like Elieu Varela and Tyrese Asante, who returned to the squad, but he chose to continue with the players who brought the club its first trophy of the season last week. It was a clear message from Miller to the players: whoever is performing well will play, regardless of their name.
At the individual level, several players deserve mention. The club highly praised Said Abu Farchi. The 20-year-old striker scored a brace, marking his fourth goal in the last two games, mirroring his performance against Hapoel Be'er Sheva last week. He opened the scoring with a great header and also successfully converted a penalty kick into the top corner.
Alongside him, Roy Revivo provided two assists for Dor Peretz and Sagiv Jehezkel. Although Revivo aims to play abroad, he continues to produce excellent football for Maccabi Tel Aviv and is not discouraged by the fact that he has not yet been sold. Goalkeeper Ofek Melika also recorded an excellent match with several fine saves. Issouf Sissokho scored his debut goal for the club, while Mohamed Ali Camara played with calm and confidence. Other players who deserve credit are Ido Shahar and Itamar Noy, who provided control in the center of the field.
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Despite the joy in Moldova, there is concern at Maccabi Tel Aviv regarding Christian Blic, who was injured again. He will undergo an ultrasound scan today upon the team's return to the country to diagnose the severity of his leg injury. Blic was deeply saddened after the match, and even the warm words from his teammates could not alleviate the pain he felt.
Maccabi Tel Aviv is very satisfied with the start of the season. The decision to appoint Kenny Miller as coach is proving itself, as the structure built around him and his capable assistant coaches is clearly evident. At the same time, the club is expected to finalize the signing of Slovenian striker Ester Socler, who will join the team ahead of the next round.
Regarding Tyrese Asante, the club will not compromise on their valuation. Following team tradition, they will not agree to sell him for less than five million euros.
