Match preview: Jerusalem derby arrives with clear momentum for Beitar
The Teddi Malcha Stadium will host a heated city derby on 8 December as Beitar Jerusalem welcome Hapoel Jerusalem in Round 13 of the 2025/2026 Ligat ha'Al regular season. On paper and in form, this one looks decidedly tilted toward the hosts. Beitar arrive riding a storming run — eight wins, one draw and a single loss across their last ten results — and they’ve translated that momentum into 26 points from 12 matches, sitting third in the table. Their attack has been prolific, 32 goals from 12 games, and recent scorelines underline the firepower on display: 5-0 away, 4-2 at home, and a 6-2 demolition of Maccabi Tel Aviv in November.
Hapoel Jerusalem, by contrast, are rooted deep in a relegation fight at 13th with just seven points. Their last five league results produced only one win, a patchy sequence of draws and losses, and defensive frailties are evident — 19 goals conceded from 12 matches. The away side’s away goal return is modest and their total shot volumes and shots on target lag well behind Beitar’s, painting a picture of a club struggling to impose itself on hostile venues.
Tactical outlook and recent form
Beitar’s underlying numbers show control: high average of attacks (96.92) and dangerous attacks (52.75), plus an enviable shots-on-target total that reflects an aggressive and clinical approach. They’ve also posted strong away scoring figures (21), suggesting they don’t rely solely on home advantage to unlock opponents. Hapoel Jerusalem generate fewer total attempts and fewer shots on target, and their recent defeats indicate problems turning possession into clear chances and points.
The most recent head-to-head meeting ended 1-1 earlier this year, but form can be a decisive separator in derby fixtures. Beitar’s confidence following a 5-0 win at Ironi Tiberias and a string of high-scoring victories gives them both the psychological edge and the attacking rhythm likely to trouble Hapoel’s leaky backline. Hapoel’s solitary recent win came away in a lower-scoring clash and their away goal output remains low; they will need a tactical shift to stifle Beitar and land on the counter.
Prediction and betting tips
Given the gulf in form, recent scoring trends and the bookmakers’ pricing — home priced at 1.45 with implied probability near 69% — the sensible market to target is the 1X2 home win. This is not a prediction for a cautious draw or an away shock; Beitar’s offensive numbers and recent high-scoring performances suggest they will press their advantage early and often. For bettors interested in refining approach or diversifying exposure, consult a primer on Soccer betting tips and the choice of markets to pick the market that matches your risk profile, and remember the value of discipline as explained in How to have emotional control when placing bets?
Final verdict & suggested bet
Beitar Jerusalem to win (1) at the quoted price represents the cleanest play. The host side’s attacking rhythm, superior shot metrics and overwhelming recent form make them strong favourites in this derby. Stake size should reflect the short price and personal bankroll rules, but from a value perspective the home win is the best single-market choice for this fixture.