Maccabi Tel Aviv vs Hapoel Ashdod Prediction, Odds & Betting Tips — 17-04-2026

Team Analysis

Maccabi Tel Aviv
Recent Form: Maccabi have exhibited impressive momentum, winning four out of their last five matches. Their recent victories include a thrilling away game against Rishon Lezion (30-27), reaffirming their position among the title contenders. Overall, they stand at 14 wins, 2 losses this season.

Key Players: The standout performer for Maccabi has been their prolific right-winger, Omer Oren, who has consistently found the back of the net, contributing over 10 goals in each of the last three outings. Playmaker Eliad Mahajna adds balance with his vision and creativity, orchestrating the game’s tempo.

Weaknesses: However, Maccabi’s defense has shown vulnerability at times, particularly against teams with fast breaks. They will need to tighten their back line to counter Ashdod's pacey counters effectively.

Hapoel Ashdod
Recent Form: Hapoel Ashdod has had a mixed bag of results recently, winning two of their last five matches. Their most notable win was a commanding 28-25 victory over Hapoel Haifa but suffered a setback against fellow playoff hopefuls, losing 23-30 to Maccabi Rishon last week. They currently sit middle of the table with a record of 8 wins and 8 losses.

Key Players: Ashdod’s key man is goalkeeper Ilan Farkash, whose reflexes and shot-stopping ability have often kept them in games. The hard-hitting pivot, Adir Rotem, is also crucial, providing strength and scoring through the middle. The team’s success will hinge on how effectively they can exploit Maccabi's defensive gaps.

Weaknesses: Hapoel's inconsistency has been their Achilles' heel, with moments of brilliance overshadowed by lapses in concentration. They must maintain focus throughout the match and capitalize on scoring opportunities against a robust opponent like Maccabi.

Statistics & Head-to-Head

The head-to-head record favors Maccabi Tel Aviv, who have bested Ashdod in 65% of their past encounters, including a solid 31-26 victory in the first leg this season. Maccabi scored an impressive average of 29.2 goals per game while conceding just 24.5. In contrast, Ashdod has struggled defensively, with an average of 26.4 goals conceded per match.

• Last 5 Matches:
• Maccabi: W, L, W, W, W
• Ashdod: L, W, L, W, L
• Goals Scored: Maccabi (525), Ashdod (462)
• Goals Conceded: Maccabi (392), Ashdod (475)

Contextual Factors

The match will take place at the Menora Mivtachim Arena, where Maccabi enjoys a notable home-ground advantage, buoyed by passionate fans. Weather forecasts predict a clear evening, likely favoring an open game. Injuries could play a critical role; currently, Maccabi remains largely fit, while Ashdod will be without their veteran defender Yoav Chaimdue to a shoulder injury, a blow to their defensive lineup.