The best defense in the league
One of the most central factors in Hapoel Haifa’s prominence this season has been their defense. Nir Klinger’s side has only given up 17 goals in 23 league matches this campaign and together with Hapoel Beer Sheva are the two sides that have conceded the fewest goals this season. The first name that comes to mind is central defender Gabriel Tamaș who is considered to be a true leader on the back line for the Reds and he will have his contract extended with the club according to many media sources in the country.
Tamaș rank 6th in the league in successful tackles (182) and 5th in steals. The difference between the two categories is that a tackle is taking away the ball from the opponent’s feet while a steal means taking the ball away when being passed between players before it reaches the player’s feet. Veteran Niso Kapiloto is helping Tamaș out and he’s also having a terrific season anchoring the Haifa defense as he ranks 13th in tackles and 19th in steals.
Pay attention to the counter attacks
Hapoel Haifa knows how to defend and that means they also know how to counter attack pretty well. They have scored 12 goals, ranking them second to Maccabi Netanya who have 15 via a counter. The Carmel Reds have also proven to be lethal on set pieces and have scored 3 goals, second to Beitar with five thanks to Claudemir.
Former Yellow & Blue players on the attack
After beginning with the Haifa defense and moving to their offense, let’s look at their attack a bit closer as their are some familiar faces that have helped fuel the Reds. Eden Ben Basat teams up with Alon Turgeman for Klinger’s squad as they have scored 8 (7th place) and 9 goals (3rd place) respectively.
During the January transfer window Hanan Maman moved to Hapoel Beer Sheva, but Haifa picked up a number of players including Gili Vermouth who will need to fill Maman’s large shoes. In fact, the former Maccabi midfielder scored his first goal for his new team last match in a 2:0 win over Maccabi Netanya.
