Who would've thunk? Beitar Jerusalem Fans Outraged Over High Number of Shabbat Games

Beitar Jerusalem supporters have expressed anger after the Israeli Premier League announced its schedule for the next six rounds, with five of the team's matches scheduled for Saturdays, conflicting with Shabbat.

Schedule Controversy

The league administration published timings for rounds 18-23, revealing that most of Beitar's games would be played either on or immediately after the Sabbath, sparking protests from religiously observant fans.

Club's Response

Beitar Jerusalem issued a statement addressing fan concerns: "Only two home games will be held during Sabbath hours - one against Hapoel Haifa (first round) and another versus Sakhnin. These will be the only matches at Teddy Stadium during these hours until the end of the season."

The club explained that their upcoming home game against Bnei Reineh was scheduled for immediately after the Shabbat due to security constraints, citing a 'NEXT' concert at the Arena that evening.

Accommodations for Religious Fans

To accommodate observant supporters, the club confirmed:

- Special "Sabbath gates" will operate during home games

- They're working to adjust some game times

- Only one away game will be played in Netanya at 15:00

Transfer News

Meanwhile, in transfer developments, new signing Omer Atzili is expected to arrive tomorrow:

- Landing scheduled for Thursday at 16:00 at Ben Gurion Airport

- Fans planning welcome reception

- Signed 2.5-year contract last week

- Made surprising U-turn after initially announcing agreement with Maccabi Haifa

Atzili commented on Instagram: "I don't think anyone in the world will understand what drives me and what makes me want to be at Beitar Jerusalem."