Preview: Levita Stadium set for a crucial Liga Leumit clash
The Levita Stadium in Kfar-Saba will host an intriguing Liga Leumit fixture on 19/01/2026 as Hapoel Kfar Saba welcome struggling Hapoel Afula. The home side arrive in better league health: fourth in the table with 29 points from 18 matches, while Afula sit 16th with 18 points. League form and recent results point to a fixture where the favorites must impose themselves, but context matters — Kfar Saba have just been knocked out of the State Cup by Kafr Qasim, a result that could stoke a reaction or leave lingering effects.
Hapoel Kfar Saba’s season profile shows a team that creates chances and presses its advantage in territory and shots. The home side averages over 11 total shots per match and registers higher figures in dangerous attacks and corners, and they boast seven clean sheets across the campaign. Their recent sequence is mixed but leans positive, with five wins in the latest block and a tendency to grind out results at home. By contrast, Hapoel Afula struggle for consistency: they average just over six shots per game, have shipped 31 goals overall, and managed only three clean sheets. Afula’s away numbers are concerning — eight goals scored away and 14 conceded — underlining defensive fragility when they leave home.
Tactical narrative and head-to-head
The teams met earlier in the season with a 1-1 draw, evidence that Afula can compete when compact and disciplined. Yet Hapoel Kfar Saba’s superior attacking volume and home comfort tilt the balance. The visitors have shown moments — recent draws and a couple of wins — but their underlying defensive record suggests they are vulnerable to teams that convert possession into top-quality chances. Expect Kfar Saba to try to control the tempo, use the width and corners to create overloads, and test an Afula backline that concedes more than league average.
For readers wanting to refine their market selection and approach to matches like this, consult broader Soccer betting tips and the choice of markets and, if staking structure is a concern, consider guidance on How to set values for sports betting and how to start creating a bankroll to manage exposure.
Betting suggestion: Back the 1X2 market — Hapoel Kfar Saba to win. The home team’s superior attacking metrics, greater number of clean sheets, and stronger league position make the home victory the most likely outcome; a cautious stake is advised given Kfar Saba’s recent cup loss.
