Football
Exclusive: Maccabi Haifa's Ali Mohamed Eyes Bounce-Back Season
Maccabi Haifa's Ali Mohamed reflects on a challenging 2023/24 season, expressing determination to bounce back and lead his team to glory.
Image Credits: Marcio Machado/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images
Ali Mohamed, Niger's shining star in Israel, has catapulted to stardom with his impeccable character and outstanding performances for Maccabi Haifa.
Joining the Greens at 25 from Beitar Jerusalem, Ali was a marquee signing in the 2021 summer transfer window. His move was deemed an "emergency transfer" to bolster Haifa's squad ahead of their UEFA Champions League qualifiers and domestic competitions.
The timing of his arrival was particularly significant, as Maccabi Haifa had just ended a decade-long trophy drought. Ali's transfer added pressure and expectations, but he has risen to the challenge.
A Season to Forget
For many Maccabi Haifa fans worldwide, the 2023/24 football season will be a fleeting memory. Ali Mohamed, the team's midfield dynamo, succinctly describes it as "frustrating." Since joining the Greens three seasons ago, Ali has grown accustomed to celebrating trophy wins at the Sammy Ofer Stadium.
"Last season was disappointing, and we can't afford to repeat the mistake of losing focus when it matters most, but we've learned from those mistakes. We twice caught up with Maccabi Tel-Aviv at the top of the league, only to let those moments slip away,” Mohamed told SportsBoom.com.
Image Credits: David S. Bustamante/Soccrates/Getty Images
"We're hungrier than ever to bring glory to the Greens. We lost focus twice, but we're ready to make amends.”
The fans were heartbroken, and the players felt the same pain. "It's part of the game – one day you're on top, the next you're down," Ali acknowledged. "Injuries plagued us throughout the season, but we take full responsibility as players." his tone tinged with melancholy.
A Two-Way Race
"Initially, it was a three-way race between Maccabi Tel Aviv, Maccabi Haifa, and Hapoel Tel Aviv. Now, it's a direct challenge between us and Maccabi Tel Aviv. We understand the significance of beating them."
"We're intensifying our training to get in shape before the season kicks off on August 26. Our fans deserve better, and we're eager to deliver for them."
Regarding new signings, Ali trusts coach Bakhar's technical team to make savvy signings. "It's not my decision who stays or leaves. The coaching staff knows their job, and I believe every new player will significantly contribute to our success. I wish them all the best at the club."
I have no doubt about what we can achieve next season. Our approach will be to take it one game at a time.
Ali Mohamed
That Night in Haifa
Playing in the Champions League is a dream for many European players, and Ali Mohamed is no exception. For Maccabi Haifa fans, defeating Juventus felt like a dream come true. Omer Atzili's two first-half goals shattered Juventus' Champions League aspirations, creating a wild European night at the Sammy Ofer Stadium.
For Ali, who played in the match, it was a career highlight. "Those were incredible moments; everyone at the club savoured them. Beating Juventus in front of our fans at the Sammy Ofer Stadium was electrifying. As a big club, such moments are vital for teammates and me. The victory against Juventus remains my favourite moment as a player," Ali shared.
"I pinch myself thinking about it... we actually beat Juventus! Omer Atzili's performance was pure magic."
However, Maccabi Haifa's 2024/ 25 European journey ended prematurely this season, following a tough loss to Azerbaijan's Sabah FC in the UEFA Conference League qualifiers' second round."
Victor is a skilled broadcast journalist with an in-depth understanding of the sports ecosystem which spans over 8 years. He brings onboard a rich experience, having established himself as one of Ghana's finest lead commentators through major events like the African Games and the Ghana Women's Premier League.