UEFA Women’s Champions League – Budućnost Podgorica (Women) 0–1 Hapoel Jerusalem (Women)

Hapoel Jerusalem Women secured a crucial 1–0 away victory over Budućnost Podgorica Women in the first leg of their UEFA Women’s Champions League qualifying tie on 25 July 2026. The narrow win gives the Israeli side a strong advantage heading into the return leg in Jerusalem.

Match Overview

The match, played at the Stadion pod Goricom in Podgorica, was a tense and physical affair. Both teams understood the importance of the result in this early qualifying round. Budućnost started brightly, pressing high and forcing Hapoel into defensive errors. However, the visitors grew into the match and began to create chances of their own.

The only goal of the game came in the 37th minute. Hapoel midfielder Shira Elinav picked up the ball just inside the Budućnost half, drove forward, and unleashed a powerful shot from 25 yards that flew into the top corner. The goalkeeper got a hand to it but could not keep it out.

Defensive Resilience

After taking the lead, Hapoel Jerusalem sat deeper and relied on counter-attacks. Budućnost dominated possession in the second half, pushing forward in search of an equaliser. They created several half-chances, most notably a header from captain Jelena Vujadinović that sailed just over the bar in the 68th minute. But Hapoel’s defence, marshalled by veteran centre-back Lina Cohen, held firm.

Budućnost’s best opportunity came in stoppage time when a scramble in the box saw the ball fall to forward Anđela Tošković, but her shot was blocked on the line by Hapoel full-back Noam Bar.

Tie Balance

Hapoel Jerusalem will now host the second leg with a one-goal advantage and the confidence of having kept a clean sheet away from home. Budućnost Podgorica will need to score at least once in Israel to keep their Champions League hopes alive. The Montenegrin side will also be without suspended midfielder Marija Jankov for the return leg after she received a yellow card in the first half.

Hapoel manager Guy Azouri said: “It was a professional performance. We knew it would be difficult here, but the girls showed great character. The goal was special, and the defensive work was outstanding. The tie is not over yet, but we have put ourselves in a good position.”

Key Statistics:

• Possession: Budućnost 58% – 42% Hapoel
• Shots on target: Budućnost 3 – 4 Hapoel
• Yellow cards: Budućnost 2 – 1 Hapoel

Date: 25 July 2026 | Venue: Stadion pod Goricom, Podgorica