Hapoel were crowned champions despite a 1-0 defeat at home to Maccabi Tel Aviv - the Negev team's first-ever league home defeat since moving to Turner Stadium three seasons ago - Beer Sheva are seven points clear with two games to go after second-placed Beitar Jerusalem could only draw 2-2 at Bnei Yehuda.

Beer Sheva manager Barak Bakhar said: "This has been a difficult and challenging season but we have come through, although losing at home upset me.

“Our aim for next season is to go as far as possible in Europe and then win a fourth championship."

Hapoel Haifa will play in the Europa League after beating Beitar 3-1 in the Israel cup final, while Beitar and Maccabi, both challenging for the Ligfat Ha'Al runners-up position, will also play in the Europa League.