After the 6-1 thumping of Hapoel Be’er Sheva in the Toto Cup last week, Maccabi Tel Aviv coach Robbie Keane stressed the importance of bringing his team down to earth and treating the next game with the same intensity and drive.
Keane referred to the late Kobe Bryant and his famous Mamba Mentality - trying to be the best version of your self.
The Irishman and the late Los Angeles Lakers star had crossed paths when Keane played for MLS side Los Angeles Galaxy from 2011 to 2016.
Today, in Maccabi’s first European test, they certainly applied some of those principles.
The Yellows hosted Moldovan side Petrocub Hincesti in a UEFA Europa Conference second qualifying round first leg.
Being the clear favorites, the Israeli side knew this could be a tricky game.
But any nerves or uncertainty were silenced after just 13 minutes, as a great free kick by Dan Biton found its way into the top corner.
Goalkeeper Cristian Avram could only touch the ball, and failed to keep it out of the net.
It was Biton’s second goal in as many matches, 1-0 Maccabi.
But frustration was growing in the stands, as Eylon Almog missed a few great chances for the hosts - the 23-year-old striker seemed to have lost his confidence in front of goal.
In the 34th minute Avram, who celebrated his 29th birthday today, pulled off an excellent save to stop a dangerous shot from Eran Zahavi.
But Maccabi’s sharpshooter wouldn’t be denied all night long, as he made it 2-0 just after the hour mark.
After his hat-trick against Beer Sheva, the legendary striker was on target again.
It’s still early to determine, but perhaps playing under a great former striker like Robbie Keane has helped to bring back his mojo.
Dor Peretz sealed the deal in stoppage time with a neat finish to make it 3-0.
The attack under Keane appears to be fully flowing, with the team scoring nine goals in two games, but more importantly it was a clean sheet at home for Maccabi.
Job done for the Yellow’s ahead of next week’s second leg.
Edited by Alex Smith
Thumbnail photo by Nicole Liberman
Eran Zahavi doubles the lead for Maccabi Tel Aviv in the 62nd minute, the yellows are.close to secure the victory ⚽️⚽️
— BabaGol (@BabaGol_) July 27, 2023
📸 @NickieLiberman with wonderful photos as always#UECL pic.twitter.com/2x9nux0uyN
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