Hapoel bow out of Europe

FOOTBALL BARAK Bakhar expressed pride after Hapoel Beer Sheva were eliminated from the Europa League Round of 32.

The Israeli champions were eliminated 5-2 on aggregate against Turkish winners Besiktas after losing the second leg 2-1 in Istanbul.

Vincent Aboubakar put the hosts in front after 17 minutes before Anthony Nwakaeme gave Hapoel a lifeline with an equaliser 19 minutes into the second half.

But a late effort from Cenk Tosun sealed Hapoel Beer Sheva’s fate.

Hapoel coach Barak Bakhar said: “We experienced a wonderful journey which began last July and ended today.

“We competed in every match and showed anything is possible.

“In virtually every game we faced teams that on paper were better and richer than us, but my players proved they have an amazing character and showed that we are a very strong team of winners.

“I’m proud of every one of them. Now the real challenge will be to channel these energies as we move forward.”