Ironi Tiberias 2-1 Hapoel Bnei Sakhnin FC – Toto Cup Battle Sees Hosts Edge Rivals

Ironi Tiberias kicked off their Israel Ligat Al Toto Cup campaign with a hard-fought 2-1 home win over Hapoel Bnei Sakhnin FC on 26 July 2026. The match, played at the Green Stadium in Tiberias, offered plenty of end-to-end action as both sides looked to make an early statement in the competition.

First-Half Dominance Sets the Tone

The home side came out with clear intent, pressing high and disrupting Hapoel Bnei Sakhnin’s buildup. Tiberias opened the scoring in the 23rd minute when a well-worked corner routine allowed central defender Yarin Itzhak to head home from close range. The goal lifted the mood in the stands and gave the hosts a platform to build on.

Hapoel Bnei Sakhnin responded positively and equalised just before half-time. A quick counter-attack caught the Tiberias defence out of position, and striker Mohammed Abu Fani slotted past the goalkeeper with a composed finish. The score stood at 1-1 at the break after a highly competitive first 45 minutes.

Second-Half Decider

The second half saw both teams create chances, but it was Ironi Tiberias who regained the lead in the 67th minute. A flowing move down the left flank ended with winger Idan Shriki cutting inside and curling a right-footed shot into the far corner. The goal proved to be the winner as Hapoel Bnei Sakhnin pushed for an equaliser but lacked the final touch.

The visitors had a strong claim for a penalty waved away in the 82nd minute, but the referee waved play on. Tiberias held firm defensively to secure all three points in the group stage.

Key Stats and Performance

• Possession: Ironi Tiberias 48% – 52% Hapoel Bnei Sakhnin
• Shots on target: 5 – 4
• Corners: 6 – 3
• Yellow cards: 2 – 3

Ironi Tiberias manager Erez Baransi praised his team’s resilience: “We knew it would be tough against a well-organised side. The response after their equaliser showed real character.” Hapoel Bnei Sakhnin will look to bounce back in their next Toto Cup fixture.

The result puts Ironi Tiberias in a strong early position in the group, while the visitors need a positive result in their following match to keep qualification hopes alive.