Hapoel Jerusalem stormed to a thrilling 4-2 victory over Hapoel Kiryat Shmona in their Israeli Premier League encounter on Saturday, September 6, 2026, at Teddy Stadium. In a match full of momentum shifts and attacking intent, Jerusalem rallied from an early deficit to claim a valuable three points in front of their home supporters. The result lifted the hosts up the early-season standings and left Kiryat Shmona wondering how a strong start had slipped away.

An Entertaining First Half in the Capital

The visitors made a dream start when Kiryat Shmona's pacy forward raced onto a long ball in the seventh minute and rounded the advancing Jerusalem goalkeeper to slot home. That early setback stung Hapoel Jerusalem into action, however. The hosts gradually took control of possession and began feeding their wide players in dangerous positions. Yonatan Levy produced the equaliser in the 24th minute, rising highest at the back post to power home a header from a well-delivered corner. The opening 45 minutes ended 1-1, with both sides enjoying good spells of pressure but neither willing to risk too much in search of a second goal.

Second-Half Drama

Kiryat Shmona regained the lead early after the restart, striking on the counter-attack in the 49th minute when midfielder Shachar Azulay converted a low cross from the left. Rather than settling into a defensive shell, Kiryat Shmona attempted to protect their advantage by pressing forward, but that approach left space in behind. Hapoel Jerusalem capitalised in stunning fashion, scoring three unanswered goals through a combination of slick passing and decisive finishing. The hosts levelled again just after the hour mark, before two further goals inside the final twenty minutes completed a remarkable comeback. Substitute striker Itay Malka proved the hero, coming off the bench to score once and set up another, while captain Dor Weizman sealed the win with a composed finish from inside the penalty area.

Standout Performers

• Itay Malka delivered a game-changing cameo off the bench, bringing energy, direct running and a crucial goal when the match hung in the balance.
• Yonatan Levy was a constant threat in the air, winning his attacking duels throughout the evening.
• Shachar Azulay impressed in a losing cause for Kiryat Shmona, showing sharp instincts in the final third.

Season and Table Impact

For Hapoel Jerusalem, this victory is about far more than the three points. Coming from behind twice against a stubborn Kiryat Shmona side showed character, resilience and attacking quality that will give their fans renewed belief going into a packed Israeli Premier League schedule. The win adds to their strong start and keeps them involved in the upper half of the standings as they look to build sustained momentum. Hapoel Kiryat Shmona, meanwhile, will be disappointed to have led twice and taken nothing home. Their defensive frailties, particularly in the closing stages, will give their coaching staff plenty to work on before the next round of fixtures.

The final whistle sparked loud celebrations inside Teddy Stadium, a clear sign that this 4-2 result meant more than most. Jerusalem turned a potential setback into a memorable night and produced one of the standout scorelines of the Israeli Premier League weekend.