Ecstatic Atanda Inspires Hapoel to ‘sweet victory’
Nigeria international, Sodiq Atanda played a starring role as Hapoel Kfar Saba came from one goal behind to beat Bnei Yehuda 3-1 at Levita Stadium in Israel on Monday night.
The visitor took the lead in 10 minutes through Ben Shimon sensational goal, but the home team defence marshal by former Nigeria U-23 defender, Atanda was in top form to safeguard the defence line. His effort was instrumental against the opposition attack on numbers of occasions.
Omer Fadida’s 62nd –minute goal restored the parity before scoring the winning goal at 76th minute to complete a brace in the encounter. Bnei Yehuda attack became stronger after the home team took the lead but Atanda’s effort proved numbers of chances abortive.
Shay Mazor was booked twice and left the pitch at 75th minutes of the game. The hope of the visitor was lost after Or Amir Rustom got his second booking and reduced Bnei Yehuda to 9-men while the home team took the advantage to make it 3-1 through Or Dasa at 90th minute.
Speaking shortly after the game, the 27-year-old versatile defender is delighted earning the maximum point against dangerous Bnei Yehuda.
“It was a sweet victory, we played with maximum determination to equalise and win the match, it was a thrilling encounter between the two teams but I am very happy to see my team coming back stronger. It was a collective victory for the entire fans of the club,” said Atanda after the game.
“They were very technical and sharp, they took the lead but we were focused and determined to equalize before the half-time but we couldn’t because of their own style of play.”
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“This is a good victory that will take us far this season, a victory by all means, we fought hard and fought back. I think we need more victories like this against more teams.”
“Well, I have always been confident about my ability and the coach always believes in me, that is why I have the chance to partner my able team mates in the defence, it’s all about hardwork and determination, we want more victories and we will be ready to continue the fight.”