Maccabi Tel Aviv Shachar U19 produced a dominant 3-0 victory over Hapoel Petah Tikva Nahum Stelmah U19 in the Israel Youth League, controlling the game from the opening whistle. A sharp first-half display put the hosts in command, and they managed the second half comfortably to secure a convincing three points.

Match overview

Maccabi Tel Aviv Shachar U19 set the tone with high pressing and quick passing, pinning Hapoel Petah Tikva Nahum Stelmah U19 in their own half for long periods. The hosts opened the scoring early, added a second before the break and never looked like surrendering control. The third goal after half-time ended any lingering doubt and allowed Maccabi to manage the closing stages with composure.

Key moments

• 11th minute: Maccabi took the lead when Omer Ben-David finished a flowing team move from close range.
• 33rd minute: Ben-David doubled the advantage with a low strike after cutting in from the left.
• 52nd minute: Hapoel Petah Tikva’s best chance came from a free kick, but the header went over the bar.
• 67th minute: Yonatan Azulay made it 3-0 with a composed finish after a quick counter-attack.
• 81st minute: Maccabi’s goalkeeper kept his clean sheet with a strong save at the near post.

Tactical story

Maccabi’s dominance came from their ability to win the ball back quickly in midfield. Their pressing forced Hapoel Petah Tikva into hurried clearances, and Maccabi repeatedly attacked the spaces left behind. In possession, the hosts used wide overloads to stretch the defence, creating room for Ben-David and Azulay to operate between the lines.

Standout performers

Omer Ben-David was the standout with two well-taken goals, while Yonatan Azulay added quality in the final third and capped the win with the third goal. Maccabi’s centre-back pairing also deserves praise for a calm defensive display and a clean sheet.

What the result means

The win strengthens Maccabi Tel Aviv Shachar U19’s position in the Israel Youth League and underlines their attacking quality. Hapoel Petah Tikva Nahum Stelmah U19 will need a response in their next fixture after a difficult afternoon against one of the league’s stronger youth sides.