Maccabi Haifa vs Hapoel Haifa: Predictions
The Haifa Derby: A Rivalry Steeped in History
The Haifa derby is one of Israeli football’s most passionate fixtures. On Monday, January 5, 2026, Maccabi Haifa and Hapoel Haifa will meet again in the Ligat Ha’al. This match is always about more than points; it’s about local pride and bragging rights in the city. Historically, Maccabi Haifa has been the dominant force, but derbies can produce surprises.
Current Form and Team News
Maccabi Haifa sits 7th in the table with 22 points. Their form has been mixed, but they are coming off a massive 8-1 league victory. Their attack, led by top scorer Trivante Stewart (8 goals), is potent. Hapoel Haifa is 8th with 18 points and their form is a concern. They have suffered heavy recent defeats, including a 5-0 loss. Their key man is striker Javon East, also with 8 goals. Team news on injuries is limited, but the morale gap seems clear.
Statistical Analysis for Bettors
The stats strongly favor the home side. Maccabi Haifa wins 55.1% of their home matches and averages 2.6 goals scored in their last 10 games. Hapoel Haifa wins only 35.4% of their away matches and concedes 2.6 goals on average recently. In head-to-head matches, Hapoel Haifa won the last meeting 5-1, showing this derby can be unpredictable.
AI Prediction and Top Bet for the Derby
Our Football Predictions generated using Artificial Intelligence, NerdyTips AI NT 4.0, has analyzed all this data. The model gives a very clear signal. The top bet for this match is a win for Maccabi Haifa (1) at odds of 1.40. The AI rates this pick with a 10.0/10 confidence level. This is the standout selection.
The predicted final score is 4-1 to Maccabi Haifa, with a half-time score of 2-0. The projection expects Maccabi to dominate with 63% possession and create more chances (17 total shots to 9).
Other Betting Markets to Consider
For the Over/Under market, the AI suggests Over 2.5 Goals, but with a lower confidence of 4.8/10 at odds of 1.42. Given both teams’ defensive records and Maccabi’s attacking power, this market has value. The data shows 57.3% of Maccabi’s matches go Over 2.5 goals. The “Both Teams to Score” bet is less clear, as the AI predicts a 4-1 scoreline but historical data shows it happens in roughly half of each team’s games.
Final Verdict and Betting Advice
All signs point to a strong performance from Maccabi Haifa. They are in better form, playing at home, and have a far superior offensive record. Hapoel Haifa’s recent defensive collapses are a major worry coming into a fiery derby. While derbies can be unpredictable, the data and AI analysis are overwhelmingly one-sided. The smartest bet for this Ligat Ha’al match is backing Maccabi Haifa to win. The odds of 1.40 offer solid value for such a high-confidence prediction. Good luck with your bets!