ASA Tel Aviv University (w) vs Hapoel Jerusalem (w) on 29 January
ASA Tel Aviv University (w) and Hapoel Jerusalem (w) are set to face off on January 29 in what promises to be a highly charged encounter in the Women’s Premier League. Both teams are in pursuit of crucial points that could shape their seasons. With the title race intensifying and each team needing to maintain their momentum, the stakes are high. This match could be a defining moment for both clubs as they look to solidify their positions in the league. A compelling tactical battle awaits at the pitch.
ASA Tel Aviv University (w): Tactical Approach and Current Form
ASA Tel Aviv University (w) have been on a strong run, winning 4 of their last 5 matches. Their tactical approach is based on a possession-heavy style, with a focus on building from the back through quick, precise passing. The team often employs a 4-3-3 formation, prioritizing width and quick transitions through the midfield. Statistically, ASA excels in maintaining possession in the final third, with an average of 68% possession across their last five games. Their pressing actions have been efficient, with an average of 14.2 successful pressing attempts per game, leading to an impressive xG (expected goals) of 1.9 per match.
Key players such as midfielder Noa Goren have been central to their success, providing the creative spark and dictating the tempo of the match. Goren’s vision and passing range make her the engine of the team. However, ASA will be without striker Maya Lavi, who is sidelined due to injury. This could affect their attacking dynamics, with Lavi’s ability to stretch defenses and create space in the box being missed. The team will need to adapt their offensive strategy to account for this loss.
Hapoel Jerusalem (w): Tactical Approach and Current Form
Hapoel Jerusalem (w) come into this match with mixed form, securing 2 wins and 2 losses in their last 5 games. Their style of play is more direct compared to ASA, often relying on quick counters and set-piece opportunities. The team plays in a 4-4-2 formation, with a solid defensive block and wingers who are quick to transition into attack. Defensively, they have been compact, allowing an average of only 1.1 goals per game in their last 5 fixtures. However, their possession numbers are lower, averaging just 47% in their previous encounters.
Key player for Hapoel Jerusalem is striker Shira Dahan, who has been in great form, scoring 5 goals in the last 4 games. Dahan’s ability to hold up the ball and link up play with her attacking teammates is vital to their counter-attacking approach. The absence of right-back Tami Cohen, who is suspended for this match, could leave a gap in defense. This will place additional pressure on Hapoel's midfield to track ASA's wide players and prevent crosses into the box.
Head-to-Head: History and Psychology
In their last 5 encounters, ASA Tel Aviv University (w) have had the upper hand, winning 3 and drawing 2. However, their last meeting was a close affair, with ASA narrowly defeating Hapoel Jerusalem (w) 2-1 in a tightly contested match. The games between these two teams tend to be intense, with ASA’s possession-based style clashing against Hapoel’s counter-attacking game. Historically, ASA has had more success in high-pressure games, often coming through in tight situations. Hapoel, on the other hand, has been known to exploit weaknesses in teams that try to control possession too much, setting up a psychological battle of styles.
Key Battles and Critical Zones
The key battle in this match will be in the midfield, where ASA's Noa Goren will face off against Hapoel’s deep-lying midfielder, Rachel Ben David. Goren’s ability to dictate play and create chances will be crucial for ASA’s attacking rhythm, while Ben David’s job will be to disrupt Goren’s passes and break up the flow of ASA’s game. The battle between the two wingers, ASA’s Yaara Shalfi and Hapoel’s Dalia Ben Haim, will also be critical. Shalfi’s pace and crossing ability will test Hapoel’s defense, while Ben Haim’s quick counters could exploit any space left by ASA’s full-backs.
The most decisive area will be the wings. ASA’s full-backs will need to provide width and defensive stability, while Hapoel’s wide players will look to exploit the spaces left open by their more attacking counterparts. If Hapoel can contain ASA’s wide play, they could force the game into a more direct, low-scoring affair.
Match Scenario and Prediction
ASA Tel Aviv University (w) will likely control possession, dictating the tempo and looking for openings through the middle and wide areas. Hapoel Jerusalem (w) will sit back and absorb pressure, looking to exploit any mistakes through quick transitions and set-pieces. The match will be a tactical battle, with ASA’s offensive play coming up against Hapoel’s resolute defense. ASA’s attack will find it difficult to break down a compact Hapoel defense, especially with the absence of Maya Lavi. However, the quality of their midfield and creative players should see them edge the game.
Prediction: ASA Tel Aviv University (w) 2-1 Hapoel Jerusalem (w). ASA will dominate possession and create chances, but Hapoel’s counter-attacks will keep them in the game. A late goal from ASA’s attacking players should secure the win.
Final Thoughts
This match will answer the question of whether ASA’s possession-based game can overcome Hapoel’s counter-attacking style. With both teams having key players out, the tactical adjustments each side makes will be crucial in determining the outcome. Expect a hard-fought encounter with ASA ultimately coming out on top due to their greater attacking quality and midfield control.
