Match overview
Maccabi Tel Aviv faced Dinamo Zagreb in the Europa League on Thursday, playing at the TSC stadium in Bačka Topola, Serbia. The Yellow-and-Blue rolled out a second-string XI after fasting ended only hours before kick-off, and three Israeli players started: Ro’i Mishpati in goal, along with Roy Ravivo and Said Abu Parhi. From the opening minutes, the hosts pressed high and dictated the pace, but the visitors found themselves level just after half an hour of play.
First-half action: a tale of two quick swings
The visitors opened the scoring in the 14th minute. A well-constructed move saw Ben Lederman thread a through ball to Said Abu Parhi, whose weak shot somehow beat goalkeeper Ivan Nebistić to give Maccabi a 0-1 lead. Almost immediately, a defensive slip changed the complexion of the game. Ali Kamara misplayed a routine pass, and the loose ball fell to Zagreb’s attackers. Matej Lišiča seized the opportunity, firing a low shot from outside the box past Mishpati to level the score at 1-1 just moments later.
Three minutes later Dinamo Zagreb struck again. A through ball found Dejan Ljubičić in space, and he dispatched a low effort beyond Mishpati, handing the visitors a 1-2 lead. Maccabi looked shaken but continued to push forward, showing intent but failing to convert key opportunities before the halftime whistle.
Second half: substitutions, pressure, and the final blow
At the 63rd minute, Maccabi introduced several substitutes in a bid to alter the tempo and regain a foothold in the game. Despite the changes, the Israeli side could not find the equalizer, and Zagreb added a third in the 72nd minute. Ljubičić again found space outside the box and unleashed a powerful strike that beat Mishpati, sealing a 1-3 scoreline and giving Zagreb a comfortable cushion for the remainder of the match.
Throughout the remainder of the match, Maccabi pressed in search of another goal, but a combination of solid Zagreb defending and wayward finishing prevented a late rally. The result marked a disappointing setback for the Israeli side, who had started the game with purpose but could not sustain their early menace.
What’s next
The European campaign continues for Maccabi Tel Aviv on October 23, when they host Mitiulan in their next group game. Domestically, the team will be back in action on Sunday against Maccabi Haifa in the Israeli Premier League, a contest that will test their resilience after a tough European night. The loss serves as a reminder that squad depth matters in continental competitions, especially when fixture schedules and travel are factored in.
Bottom line
Dinamo Zagreb took advantage of a second-string Maccabi side to secure a 3-1 victory, with Dejan Ljubičić scoring twice and sending a clear message about Zagreb’s efficiency in Europe. For Maccabi, regrouping quickly will be essential as they look to rebound in the next European fixture and regain momentum at home in the domestic league.
