UEFA bans Israel defender in Champions League doping case

Israel's Shir Meir Tzedek, right, is challenged by Croatia's Mario Mandzukic during the international friendly soccer match between Croatia and Israel in Osijek, Croatia, Wednesday, March 23, 2016. (Darko Bandic/AP)

NYON, Switzerland — UEFA says Hapoel Be’er Sheva defender Shir Tzedek is banned for eight months after testing positive for a stimulant at a Champions League qualifying game.

UEFA says the verdict is "final and binding" because neither the player nor the World Anti-Doping Agency appealed the verdict.

Tzedek reportedly tested positive for the stimulant octopamine after a Champions League playoff game in August against Maribor.

Hapoel Be’er Sheva was eliminated and switched to the Europa League.

Tzedek scored in a 2-1 win over Lugano to begin the Europa League group stage in September, then did not play again in the competition.

The 28-year-old Israel international had his case heard at UEFA in December.

Hapoel Be’er Sheva currently leads the Israeli league.

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