There was plenty of relief after the final whistle was sounded as Maccabi defeated Panionios 1:0 and punched their ticket to the Playoff Round of the Europa League.

“We had a very difficult game today,” explained Head Coach Jordi Cruyff. We couldn’t pass the ball the way we are used. We defended well and this was the type of match where you have to play like men. We held the ball, protected the goal and won the game. I’m happy we did just that.

Style of the match:
“They played with many players on the attack and today was not a day with a lot of midfield quality, it was more battle from the defense line to the attack. For us it was most important to win our duels, our aerial duels and from there try to play.”

Difficulties:
“Panionios made it very difficult for us and we usually try to play much more combination football but we didn’t really get the chance for that today.”

Close contests:
“I think both games were very close. The home game we dominated a little bit more but today we really didn’t have the chance to do so. It was a game that didn’t have many clear chances and mostly shots from outside of the box. I think when we scored today the belief of Panionios went down and it was very difficult for them to score three goals in ten minutes. It was only then when I felt calm.”

Central Defender Tal Ben Haim also spoke about his side’s win: “I grew up at Maccabi Tel Aviv and have been with the Club since I was six years old. My mission is to play well and finish my career where I grew up. We played a fantastic game against a very good side and I’m happy we advanced to the playoffs.”