TEL AVIV (Interstat) — Hapoel Tel Aviv opened its Ligat ha’Al campaign with a 2-0 victory over Bnei Sakhnin on Saturday at Bloomfield Stadium, defying a sluggish start with a pair of second-half goals in quick succession.

Playing in front of their home supporters, Hapoel Tel Aviv controlled possession for much of the match but struggled to break down a disciplined Bnei Sakhnin defense through the first half. The visiting side effectively stifled attacking movements, keeping the game scoreless and frustrating the hosts.

The match’s complexion changed dramatically in a four-minute span early in the second half. The breakthrough finally came in the 53rd minute when Stav Torial found the back of the net, breaking the deadlock and energizing the home crowd.

The momentum shifted decisively in Hapoel’s favor just moments later. In the 61st minute, Loizos Loizou doubled the advantage, securing a crucial cushion for the home side. The two quick goals transformed a tense, defensive battle into a comfortable lead for Hapoel Tel Aviv.

The match was not without its physical confrontations. The first disciplinary action occurred in the 49th minute when Hapoel Tel Aviv’s Doron Leidner was shown a yellow card, just minutes before his team’s offensive outburst.

The victory was statistically expected but tactically earned. According to the Interstat game simulator, the match was projected to end in a 1-1 draw. However, the same organization’s ELO system had given Hapoel Tel Aviv a 74.70 percent probability of winning, a forecast the home side ultimately fulfilled with their efficient second-half performance.

With the result, both teams begin their domestic league seasons with fresh records. Hapoel Tel Aviv starts with a win, while Bnei Sakhnin opens with a loss. Their records across all competitions also reflect this single outcome.

The win provides a positive start for Hapoel Tel Aviv as they look to build early momentum in the Israeli top flight, while Bnei Sakhnin will aim to regroup after an opening-day defeat on the road.