Ashdod vs Maccabi Herzliya - Liga Leumit

Few would have predicted the narrative arc that brings Ashdod and Maccabi Herzliya together at Yud-Alef Stadium on October 1, 2026, and the underdog storyline only adds to the Liga Leumit occasion. Manchester United have signed Cristian Orozco(Image: Getty Images) According to TEAMTalk, Manchester United may face a transfer setback if Manchester City midfielder Rodri moves to Barcelona.

There is plenty riding on this Liga Leumit encounter for Ashdod and Maccabi Herzliya alike, and neither will want to leave Yud-Alef Stadium empty-handed. The hosts have been in fine fettle of late, their recent run of W underlining a campaign win rate of 83.33%. The visitors have been a mixed bag on the road, D in their last five and a win rate of 33.33% reflecting their unpredictability. The contrast in attacking output — 2.33 versus 1.17 goals per game — adds an extra layer of intrigue. If he finds a way of those three players gelling and playing together - making one of them run in beyond - then Chelsea will have a very good season.

The tactical battle could prove decisive. Ashdod may lean on their home advantage to dictate the tempo, but Maccabi Herzliya have shown they can be dangerous when allowed to play on their own terms. And his efficiency in possession will be helped by those whom he now shares a dressing room with, allowing a more progressive midfielder to develop akin to City's style.

Individual moments of quality could tip the balance. Both sides possess players capable of producing something out of nothing, and a single flash of brilliance may be all that separates them. How each side deals with the other's danger men — and who takes their chances when they come — will be central to the outcome. Newcastle United have stepped up their search for an experienced midfielder by opening discussions with Manchester City over a possible deal for Nico Gonzalez.

Predicting an outright winner is no easy task given how little separates the two sides on paper. A share of the spoils looks the most probable outcome, with neither side holding a decisive edge — a 2-2 draw feels like a fitting result. Whatever the outcome, the Liga Leumit fixture promises a meaningful contest with real implications for both clubs. Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player Liverpool's midfield wasn't great last year but I expect Florian Wirtz to have a better season, 100 per cent.