A goal from Hen Ezra inspired Maccabi Haifa to victory in the final of the Israeli FA Cup.

Ezra's 36th minute strike was enough to see off the challenge of Maccabi Tel Aviv at the Teddy Stadium in Jerusalem.

After lifting the cup, Haifa captain Yossi Benayoun confirmed that he has played his "last game for the club".

Benayoun, who has been left out of Israel's squad for next week's friendly against Serbia, said: "I've had some unpleasant experiences here and early in the season many supporters said they wanted me to go.

"This cup means more to me than any of the goals I have scored, even for Liverpool against Real Madrid at the Bernebau."

Benayoun, 36, has reportedly agreed terms with Maccabi Tel Aviv for next season and turned down an offer to join newly crowned champions Hapoel Beer Sheva where he began his professional career.