Hapoel Tel Aviv 2–0 Ludogorets Razgrad: Israeli Side Takes Commanding First‑Leg Lead

Hapoel Tel Aviv produced a disciplined and clinical performance at Bloomfield Stadium on 24 July 2026, defeating Bulgarian champions Ludogorets Razgrad 2–0 in the first leg of their UEFA Europa Conference League qualifying tie. The result gives the Israeli side a strong advantage heading into next week’s return leg in Razgrad, while Ludogorets will rue missed chances and a lack of cutting edge in the final third.

Match Overview

From the opening whistle, Hapoel Tel Aviv looked to press high and disrupt Ludogorets’ build‑up play. The visitors, accustomed to dominating domestic competition, struggled to find rhythm on the artificial surface. Hapoel’s midfield trio of Dan Glazer, Omer Atzili and Gabi Kanichowsky controlled the tempo, while left‑back Ofir Davidzada provided constant width down the flank.

The first goal arrived in the 23rd minute. Atzili’s corner kick was met by a powerful header from centre‑back Edi Gotlieb, who outjumped his marker to nod the ball past goalkeeper Sergio Padt. The home crowd erupted as the net bulged, and Hapoel never looked back.

Ludogorets responded with a spell of pressure midway through the first half. Winger Bernard Tekpetey forced a sharp save from Eliyahu Zarbailov in the 35th minute, and Rwan Phryderyk had a goal ruled out for offside shortly before the break. However, Hapoel’s defence, marshalled by Luis Hernández, remained resolute.

Second Half: Hapoel Doubles the Lead

The home side doubled their advantage in the 67th minute through a moment of individual brilliance. Omer Atzili collected the ball on the edge of the area, feigned to shoot, then slipped a perfectly weighted pass into the path of substitute Ido Shahar, who slotted calmly past Padt from 12 yards.

Ludogorets pushed forward in search of a vital away goal, but Hapoel’s counter‑pressing and quick transitions kept them at bay. The Bulgarian side’s best chance came in the 81st minute when Caio Vidal struck the post from a tight angle.

Standout Performances

• Omer Atzili (Hapoel Tel Aviv): The experienced playmaker was involved in both goals, showing vision and creativity that troubled Ludogorets all night.
• Edi Gotlieb (Hapoel Tel Aviv): His early goal settled the hosts and he was dominant in aerial duels, winning 8 of 10 headers.
• Bernard Tekpetey (Ludogorets): The Ghanaian winger was a constant threat on the counter but lacked support in the box.

Tactical Analysis

Hapoel manager Michael Valkanis set his team up in a compact 4‑4‑2, inviting Ludogorets to hold possession while springing quick attacks through Atzili and striker Yonatan Saban. The decisive factor was the work rate of Hapoel’s wingers, who tracked back to nullify Ludogorets’ full‑backs Aslak Fonn Witry and Anton Nedyalkov.

Ludogorets, overseen by coach Georgi Dermendzhiev, struggled to adapt to the intensity and often resorted to long balls that were easily cleared. Their usual fluid 4‑2‑3‑1 failed to break down a well‑organized defence.

Impact on the Tie

Hapoel Tel Aviv travel to the Huvepharma Arena next week with a two‑goal cushion. Given the importance of an away goal for Ludogorets, the Bulgarian champions must now win by at least two clear goals to force extra time, or by three to advance outright. The second leg promises to be an intriguing contest, but Hapoel have firmly placed themselves in the driving seat.