Eden Ben Basat helped the Yellow-and-Blue to an important win at Levita Stadium against a game Hapoel Kfar Saba side during the first leg of the Israel State Cup quarterfinals. Number 9 spoke about the importance of scoring, playing after the Derby and of course the victory as Maccabi already has one foot into the semifinal round:

“I’m get happy as we took another important step to the next stage of the State Cup tournament. Of course we have another match, but I’m really happy that I was able to score.”

The first leg result:

“In the Cup there are always hard games and surprises. We didn’t want to add our name to that list. I believe we had a good result going forward.”

About the Derby:

“Every three days we have yet another match so we had to just put the Derby aside and concentrate on the task at hand. We actually played well in the Derby, but because we didn’t win, it didn’t mean anything. We were disappointed with the final result but we are looking ahead. We have a strong squad where everyone wants to play and that’s what is most important.”

Kfar Saba came to play:

“Every team has their own style of play and we have to make sure we prepare properly for that. We have to really look at ourselves and make sure that we are ready.”

On scoring:

“I’m working very hard and I’m thrilled that I scored. If it’s in practice, a game or even a training match it’s important for me to score for my own confidence. I hope they’ll be plenty more to come.”

Having the chance to play:

“There are a lot of quality offensive players on the team and it’s good that the coach has this headache to deal with.”