Maccabi Haifa 5–0 Hapoel Kfar Saba | International Club Friendly

Maccabi Haifa put on a stunning attacking display as they crushed Hapoel Kfar Saba 5–0 in a pre‑season friendly on July 21, 2026. Played at Haifa’s Sammy Ofer Stadium, the match served as a sharp test for both sides ahead of the new campaign, and the Israeli Premier League heavyweights showed their class from the first minute.

Match Overview

The friendly, part of Maccabi Haifa’s pre‑season preparation, saw the home side field a strong lineup that combined experienced internationals with promising youngsters. Hapoel Kfar Saba, a club that competes in the second tier of Israeli football, struggled to contain Haifa’s fluid movement and clinical finishing. By halftime, the score was already 3–0, and Haifa did not take their foot off the gas in the second half, adding two more to complete a comprehensive rout.

Key Moments

• Early lead: Haifa opened the scoring in the 8th minute when a sharp interplay between the forward and midfield led to a low finish inside the near post.
• Rapid double: Two goals in a three‑minute spell around the 25th minute put the game beyond doubt—first a header from a corner, then a solo run from the right wing.
• Fourth after the restart: A clinical counter‑attack in the 55th minute saw Haifa’s striker slot home after a perfectly timed through ball.
• Fifth from the spot: A penalty in the 72nd minute, awarded after a clumsy challenge in the box, was calmly converted to round off the scoring.

Tactical Story

Maccabi Haifa employed a high‑pressing 4‑3‑3 that overwhelmed Hapoel Kfar Saba’s attempts to play out from the back. The home side’s midfield trio — featuring a blend of creativity and defensive balance — dominated possession and dictated the rhythm. Hapoel Kfar Saba, set up in a compact 4‑4‑1‑1, were forced into deep defending and rarely threatened Haifa’s goal. The visitors’ best chance came from a long‑range effort that sailed just wide early in the second half.

Standout Performers

Haifa’s number 10 was the standout player, scoring once and setting up two more with incisive passes and intelligent movement. The right‑back also impressed, bombing forward to provide assists and overlapping runs. For Hapoel Kfar Saba, the goalkeeper made several fine saves to keep the score from being even higher, earning praise despite the heavy defeat.

Friendly Context and Season Preparation

This result sends a clear message that Maccabi Haifa are hitting form at the right time ahead of the new league season. The club has been active in the transfer market, and this performance suggests their new signings are integrating well. Hapoel Kfar Saba, while disappointed with the scoreline, will take positives from spells of possession and the chance to test themselves against top‑flight opposition. The friendly also served as a useful fitness workout, with both managers rotating liberally in the second half to give minutes to squad players.