Former Beitar Jerusalem star Shimon Chernocha dies at 78

Shimon Chernocha, a revered figure in Israeli football and a former player and coach for Beitar Jerusalem, passed away on Wednesday at the age of 78.

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For years, Chernocha was one of the pillars of Beitar Jerusalem's defense. He was known as an uncompromising fighter, a tough defender and a leader on the pitch, one who never gave up in any fight and became one of the most beloved and respected players by the Jerusalem crowd.

Chernocha holds a significant place in the club's history as the first Beitar Jerusalem player to earn a cap for the Israel National Team. He played for the team during two stints, from 1966 to 1969 and again from 1971 to 1973. After concluding his playing career, he continued his association with the club by coaching its youth team.

The football club paid a heartfelt tribute to Chernocha, remembering him as "one of the pillars of Beitar Jerusalem's defense." He was widely known for his uncompromising fighting spirit, his tenacity as a defender, and his leadership on the pitch. Chernocha's dedication and refusal to give up in any match made him one of the most cherished and respected players among the Jerusalem crowd.

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a symbol for every Beitar fan, who wore the Beitar emblem with great pride. I share in the family's grief over the loss, and of course we will ensure to honor him before our home crowd.

Club owner Barak Abramov described Chernocha as "a symbol for every Beitar fan" who "wore the Beitar emblem with great pride." He expressed condolences to the family and pledged to honor Chernocha's memory before the home crowd. Former teammate Aviram Brokhian also shared fond memories, recalling Chernocha as a supportive figure who offered "combative advice" and was "always a listening ear." Brokhian emphasized the universal respect Chernocha commanded, noting that "every player on the team loved him" and that he "demanded and also gave of himself in equal measure."

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He was always a listening ear, knew how to give the combative advice to the team. Every player on the team loved him. There was a consensus regarding the respect towards him. He demanded and also gave of himself in equal measure.