Ashdod vs Maccabi Bnei Raina - Ligat Ha'al

The Ligat Ha'al returns to Yud-Alef Stadium on April 25, 2026, where Ashdod and Maccabi Bnei Raina will lock horns in a contest that could shape their respective campaigns. Just as was the case in the previous meeting between the teams in April of last year, when Emery's side gave them such a scare in the Champions League tie at Villa Park, PSG were hanging on at the end.

The two sides arrive with plenty to prove, and the Ligat Ha'al contest at Yud-Alef Stadium offers a chance to lay down a marker. Ashdod will be keen to seize the initiative and build some momentum on home soil. The visitors will back themselves to cause problems and will not make the trip expecting an easy afternoon. Manchester City are nearing an agreement with Marseille for an experienced goalkeeper as they continue reshaping the position behind Gianluigi Donnarumma.

The tactical battle could prove decisive. Ashdod may lean on their home advantage to dictate the tempo, but Maccabi Bnei Raina have shown they can be dangerous when allowed to play on their own terms. But it was a dual role for Rayo because he was also among the top dozen players for blocking crosses and winning possession in the defensive third.

Star players on both sides will be eager to make their mark, and the individual duels across the pitch could go a long way to deciding the outcome. Discipline at the back and sharpness in front of goal will likely tilt the balance one way or the other. If that happens before the summer transfer deadline, it's understood that a loan could be on the cards for the defender for the season.

With the sides closely matched, the outcome may well hinge on which team takes its chances on the day. Expect a tight, competitive affair that could easily end all square at 1-1. Whatever the outcome, the Ligat Ha'al fixture promises a meaningful contest with real implications for both clubs. In terms of outgoings, Perri seems closest to an exit, but that will likely have to wait until Trafford's mandated holiday after the World Cup is over or a No 2 arrives.