Legia Warszawa shocked the public by winning 3‑1 over Hapoel Beer Sheva in a friendly that sparked a wave of criticism online. The match took place on July 7 at the Legia Training Center and became the focus of heated debate over the choice of training partner.

Why did the Israeli friendly cause controversy?

The decision to play Hapoel Beer Sheva was met with immediate backlash from fans, who cited the ongoing conflict in the region since 2023. Social media erupted with comments like “You’re desecrating Legia’s 110‑year history” and “Anyone who suggested this match should be fired”. Manager Marek Papszun defended the choice, stressing the lack of high‑level alternatives and that the club faces no sanctions.

How did the pre‑friendly preparations look?

After finishing the first phase of training in Poland, Legia moved to Herzogenaurach, where they beat Bayern Munich’s reserves 2‑0 and drew 2‑2 with 1.FC Nürnberg. Both opponents play in the Bavarian Regionalliga, providing solid competition. Back in Poland, the squad continues training on its own facilities, with five more friendlies planned before the league opener.

Who featured in the lineup and how did the goals happen?

Mileta Rajović started despite fan hostility. Hapoel led 1‑0 at halftime, but Legia turned the game around. Łukasz Zjawiński netted twice, and Paweł Wszołek added a third in the second half, sealing a 3‑1 victory.

What’s next for transfers and the team’s form?

In recent weeks Legia said goodbye to several key players, including Radovan Pankov and Juergen Elitim, and brought in four new signings. The club sits 6th in the Ekstraklasa with 49 points after 34 games (12W‑13D‑9L) and its latest result was a 4‑0 win over Motor Lublin on May 23, 2026. Current form is a five‑match winning streak (WWWWW), with a goal difference of +5 (42 scored, 37 conceded). Legia trails league leaders Lech Poznań by 11 points, highlighting the need for stability before the season starts.