Sheriff Tiraspol 0-5 Maccabi Tel Aviv: Israeli Dominance Crushes Moldovan Hopes in Europa League Qualifier

Maccabi Tel Aviv produced a stunning display to thrash Sheriff Tiraspol 5-0 in the first leg of their UEFA Europa League qualifying tie on 24 July 2026 at the Sheriff Stadium. The result all but seals Maccabi’s progression to the next round.

Match Overview

From the first whistle, Maccabi Tel Aviv asserted their authority, leaving Sheriff overwhelmed by pace and precision. By half-time, the visitors had already raced into a three-goal lead, and they added two more after the break in a completely one-sided contest.

Key Moments

• 8' – Early strike: Forward Eran Zahavi opened the scoring with a clinical finish after a clever through-ball from Dor Peretz.
• 23' – Second goal: A sweeping counter-attack ended with Dan Biton doubling the lead from close range.
• 41' – Third blow: Zahavi grabbed his second of the night, volleying home a cross from the right.
• 55' – Fourth goal: Substituted winger Gad Kinda curled in a beauty from 20 yards.
• 78' – Fifth: Midfielder Joris van Overeem added a late penalty after a handball in the box.

Tactical Story

Maccabi Tel Aviv manager Robbie Keane set his team up in an aggressive 4-3-3 that pressed Sheriff high up the pitch. Sheriff’s backline, used to dominating domestic opposition, could not cope with the movement and speed of Maccabi’s attackers. The Moldovan side rarely threatened, managing just one shot on target all match.

Standout Players

• Eran Zahavi (Maccabi Tel Aviv): The veteran striker rolled back the years with a brace and an assist, pulling Sheriff apart in the first half.
• Dor Peretz (Maccabi Tel Aviv): The midfielder controlled the tempo and set up the opening goal.

What This Means

Sheriff Tiraspol face a near-impossible task in the second leg at Bloomfield Stadium. A five-goal deficit is unlikely to be overturned, and Maccabi Tel Aviv can now focus on the next round. For Sheriff, it is a harsh lesson in the gulf between European qualifiers and established continental sides.