Maccabi Tel Aviv FC expresses its deepest condolences on the passing of Shaul Matania. The former Maccabi and National Team player died last night (between Wednesday & Thursday) at the age of 80. Matania played 13 seasons with the Yellow & Blue and played both defensive back and central defender throughout his career.
Matania made his first team debut at 16 years of age against Hapoel Ramat Gan at the HaMakhtesh Stadium in Giv`atayim. Due to his fine performance in that match played at the beginning of the 1953/54 season which resulted in a goalless draw, the youngster earned a place in the Starting XI. Matania was known for his intelligent play and defensive responsibility allowing him to excel at a number of positions. He kept his place in the starting lineup for the 13 years he was with the Club as the Yellow & Blue was one of the dominating teams in Israeli football winning many titles.
The central defender/defensive back won three League Championships (1953/54, 1955/56, 1957/58) along with six State Cups (1953/54, 1954/55, 1957/58, 1958/59, 1963/64, 1964/65). One of Matania’s most memorable moments was when he played against the legendary Pele when Santos came to play a mixed team of Maccabi Tel Aviv & Hapoel Petah Tikva. Making 17 Israel National Team appearances, Matania’s debut was against the Soviet Union in the Olympic qualification tournament.
