Hapoel Beer Sheva began their UEFA Champions League campaign in determined fashion, edging out Serbian champions Crvena Zvezda 1-0 on a tense evening in the first leg of their qualifying tie. The Israeli side delivered a disciplined and compact performance, taking a slender but precious advantage to Belgrade for the decisive return match.

Match Overview

With the 2026-27 European season getting underway, both sides knew that every detail would matter in the opening qualifier. Hapoel Beer Sheva, backed by a passionately vocal home crowd, started brightly and controlled the early exchanges. Crvena Zvezda, no strangers to continental knockout football, gradually grew into the contest but found the home defence difficult to break down.

The first half was a cagey strategic affair, with midfield battles dominating and few clear-cut chances at either end. Hapoel Beer Sheva pressed with intensity, forcing several turnovers in dangerous areas, while the visitors looked dangerous on the counter-attack. However, neither goalkeeper was seriously tested before the interval.

Key Moment: The Winning Goal

The deadlock was broken shortly after the hour mark when Hapoel Beer Sheva produced a slick attacking sequence. A well-worked move down the right flank created space for a pinpoint cross into the box, and the arriving forward made no mistake, finishing emphatically past the Crvena Zvezda goalkeeper. It was a moment of real quality in a match defined by structure and discipline.

Crvena Zvezda pushed forward in search of an equalizer in the closing stages, throwing numbers forward. Yet the home side stood firm, with the central defensive pairing and the goalkeeper delivering commanding performances under pressure. The final whistle was met with a roar of approval from the home faithful.

Tactical Story

Hapoel Beer Sheva set up to frustrate and strike at the right moment. They conceded possession generously but remained organized out of possession, forcing Crvena Zvezda wide and limiting their creative options. The midfield trio worked relentlessly to close passing lanes, while the wing-backs provided the attacking width that ultimately proved decisive.

For Crvena Zvezda, it was a frustrating evening. They enjoyed spells of dominance but lacked the final ball against a well-drilled defensive unit. The Serbian outfit will feel confident ahead of the second leg, especially if they can replicate their pressing game in front of their own fans.

What It Means

This 1-0 result gives Hapoel Beer Sheva a narrow yet valuable advantage as the tie moves to the return leg in Belgrade. In Champions League qualifying, away goals can prove decisive, and the Israeli side will be pleased with their clean sheet. Crvena Zvezda, meanwhile, will back themselves to overturn the deficit on home soil, where they possess a formidable European record.

For both clubs, the stakes could hardly be higher. Reaching the next Champions League qualifying round brings significant financial rewards and the opportunity to compete against Europe's elite. This first-leg victory puts Hapoel Beer Sheva firmly in the driving seat, but they know the job is only half completed.