Dimona vs Bnei Yehuda - State Cup

When Dimona and Bnei Yehuda clash at the home ground on October 12, 2026, the stakes extend well beyond a single result — this is a State Cup fixture that carries real weight for both clubs. The spectacle was once again on show ahead of Nice’s Europa League clash with AS Roma on Thursday, but what was supposed to be a display of power and pride quickly turned into a far more comical scene.

Both camps will view the State Cup meeting at the home ground as an opportunity to put a marker down, regardless of where they currently stand. The hosts will hope that the the home ground crowd can inspire a performance, whatever the numbers suggest. The visitors will back themselves to cause problems and will not make the trip expecting an easy afternoon. In his latest column, Paul Merson predicts the 2026/27 Premier League season at both ends of the table.

The tactical subplot is compelling: Dimona favour a possession-based game built on patience and control, while Bnei Yehuda are happiest sitting deep and exploding forward on the counter — a classic contrast of philosophies. Rico Lewis played at right-back, but when City were in possession he tucked infield and supported the midfield pairing of Mateo Kovacic and Reijnders.

Neither side is short on individuals capable of tilting the balance, and the duel between the two squads' chief creators could prove particularly pivotal. Whoever wins the individual duel between the two sides' chief playmakers is likely to dictate the rhythm and, ultimately, the destination of the points. Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca has been praised by defender Josko Gvardiol for his early sessions with the team.

Predictions are tricky when the sides are this evenly matched, and small margins — a moment of quality, a slice of luck — could decide it either way. A share of the spoils looks the most probable outcome, with neither side holding a decisive edge — a 1-1 draw feels like a fitting result. Whatever the outcome, the State Cup fixture promises a meaningful contest with real implications for both clubs. The team currently most likely to win the 2026 WNBA Finals according to Opta.