After winning the State Cup and achieving the historical Treble, Yoav Ziv opens his heart and shares the sweet moments from the past week in his own words: "Last night was once in a lifetime experience"
"I can say with complete confidence that last night was a remarkable night, a truly terrific game for our fans and everyone who follows Israeli football. Fans from both sides filled every corner of the stadium and created an unforgettable atmosphere. I want to praise Hapoel Be'er Sheva, they have great players and I wish them all the best in the future.
The conditions were not ideal for us, as we had to improvise in defense, but we were able to hold our ground. We played as a unit, not as 11 individual players. It felt like we were 24 players on the pitch. We really felt like our friends who could not play were running next to us.
I would like to share a little story about Carlos Garica. He really tried to be fit for the final. When he realized we would not be able to play, he got very emotional. Carlos is a foreigner, but his reaction proved his connection to the club and his teammates. I think that his story can explain our team spirit this season.
People are quick to decide who is good enough for the Champions League and who is not, but they forget that the domestic league is our bread and butter. The quality of the personnel in this club is very high. People like Sheran Yeini, Gal Alberman and myself, who played for the club during the difficult periods a few years ago know how to appreciate the transformation the club went through in the past three years.
There was a moment during the game when I looked up to the stands and tears were streaming down my face. I remembered what Pako told us before the game-we have the opportunity to live the dream, a dream every child has before becoming a professional footballer. For a moment, I looked up and realized that this dream is coming true-for my teammates and myself.
I have to add a word about Sheran Yeini, who finished his ten-year period in Maccabi. Personally, I think that he deserved to lift the cup on his own, as he is finished a chapter in Maccabi. I am sure he will be successful the Netherlands. We are all cheering for him. He is a terrific player and a fantastic human being. Gal Alberman and I were very moved by his gesture. Sheran deserved to lift the cup but he chose to share this moment with us. I will carry that moment for the rest of my life, because of Sheran and because of this great club".
