Hapoel Beersheba beats Vikingur, advances to face Red Star Belgrade

Hapoel Beersheba secured a European campaign for the first time in years by defeating Vikingur 2-0 in UEFA Champions League qualifying. The win advances them to the third round, where they will face Red Star Belgrade.

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The players have secured a European campaign for Hapoel Beersheba after a very, very long time. I’m first and foremost happy for the club. It’s Tu B’Av, so first of all, this is for my wife, who always supports me. Thank you for everything, it’s thanks to her as well, and thanks to the wives and partners of all the players.

Late goals from Zahi Ahmed and Amir Ganah sealed the victory for Ron Kozuk's side, ensuring at least a spot in the Conference League league stage. The club also benefited financially, bringing in several million Euros from advancing.

Coach Ron Kozuk praised his players for their accomplishment, dedicating the win to his wife on the holiday of Tu B'Av. He acknowledged the team's tough start to the season and the ongoing process of building a stronger squad. "The players have secured a European campaign for Hapoel Beersheba after a very, very long time," Kozuk stated. "I’m first and foremost happy for the club."

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There will always be talk. We focus on playing the best football we can. We faced an excellent opponent that’s in the 16th round of its domestic league, so it’s always difficult.

Kozuk highlighted the team's performance, noting their high distance covered in the previous match as a sign of their commitment. He emphasized the need for continued improvement and building a strong team, while also managing the pressure to advance further. "We’re still building the team because there are many things that need to change and improve," he said. "I’m very proud of my players. They’ve gone through some very difficult days, and I wasn’t easy on them either."

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We’re still building the team because there are many things that need to change and improve, and a large part of that is beyond our control. We’re working very hard to build a strong Hapoel Beersheba side. At the same time, there’s the pressure and the challenge of taking Hapoel Beersheba one step further. We’ve talked about it a lot over the past two years, and thank God we’ve done it. I’m very proud of my players. They’ve gone through some very difficult days, and I wasn’t easy on them either. I’m incredibly proud of their performance today, and congratulations on reaching the league stage.