Forever in Our Hearts: In Memory of Hanan Yablonka and Yonatan Samerano
An emotional evening took place at the Hodorov Complex, featuring an exhibition match between Hapoel Tel Aviv’s veterans team and the Nova Tribe Association team, dedicated to the memory of two supporters of the club who were murdered in the massacre at the Nova music festival.
Tonight (Wednesday), a moving event was held at the Hodorov Complex in collaboration with the Nova Tribe Association, in memory of Hapoel Tel Aviv fans Hanan Yablonka and Yonatan Samerano, of blessed memory. Hanan and Yonatan came to celebrate at the Nova festival and were murdered in the October 7 massacre. Their bodies were taken to Gaza and later returned. Their dear families attended the event and spoke during a touching ceremony.
At the conclusion of the evening, an exhibition match was held between the Nova Tribe Association team and the Hapoel Tel Aviv veterans team. The Nova team was led by Paz Amar, football team manager at the association, and coach Guy Kamin. It included survivors of the Nova party and bereaved family members. Club legends played for the veterans team.
Before the match began, a heartfelt ceremony was held in memory of Hanan Yablonka and Yonatan Samrano, devoted supporters of the club who were murdered on the Black Saturday of October 7th.
Orit, representative of the Yablonka family: "Our Hanan came to Nova to do what he always loved – to celebrate life. Hanan will forever be remembered in all of our hearts – for the goodness in him, the joy he brought, and the person he was. The pain is immense, the longing only grows – but tonight’s game is proof that life is stronger than everything, and that nothing can extinguish the spirit. Our beloved Hanan, we know you're here with us – on the field and in our hearts – spreading light and joy as you always did. We wish both teams success. May your memory be a blessing".
Sarit, representative of the Samrano family: "I want to thank Hapoel Tel Aviv, the Nova Tribe Association, and Pini Balili from the bottom of my heart. This is one of those rare games where I’m sure both sides will support each other, show unity and love – that’s the spirit of the people of Israel. Our Yonati, you are our heart, our life – and we will never forget you. Thank you all so much."
Ortal Botbika, Hapoel Tel Aviv’s Community Relations Manager: "We stand here today to honor two of Hapoel Tel Aviv’s fans – Hanan Yablonka and Yonatan Samrano, who were brutally murdered at the Nova festival on October 7. Hanan and Yonatan were not just fans – they were an inseparable part of the red family. They lived and breathed the club, followed it every season, and stood in every stadium. Their passion, love, and spirit continue to accompany us today. The match taking place this evening, between Nova survivors and Hapoel legends, is much more than just a game. It is a moment of unity, of embrace, of a clear message: we will never forget you. On behalf of the Hapoel Tel Aviv community, we send love and support to the families, friends, and all the Nova survivors. Hanan, Yonatan – always with us, in the stands, on the field, and in our hearts".
Pini Balili, Sports Relations and Partnerships Manager at the Nova Tribe Association: "There is nothing more emotional than representing Hapoel Tel Aviv and the Nova Tribe Association. Today’s match is in memory of two dear fans, with families I love and am deeply connected to. I’m sorry the match is held under such circumstances, but that’s life – we must move forward, pray for the safe return of the hostages and of our soldiers. Enjoy the match, and most importantly – bring everyone home".
The match ended with a 4:2 victory for the Nova Tribe Association team.
Thank you to everyone who attended.
May their memory be a blessing.
