At the bottom, the bottom two clubs in each division, Hapoel Kafr Kanna, Maccabi Sektzia Ma'alot-Tarshiha (from North division), Maccabi Ironi Kfar Yona and Ortodoxim Lod were all automatically relegated to Liga Bet, whilst the two clubs which were ranked in 14th place in each division, Maccabi Kafr Kanna and Hapoel Arad entered a promotion/relegation play-offs, Maccabi Kafr Kanna prevailing to stay in Liga Alef, while Hapoel Arad were relegated after losing the play-offs.
The winners of the first round played single match at home of the higher ranked club (from each regional division).
Hapoel Migdal HaEmek and Beitar Kfar Saba faced each other for a single match in neutral venue.
the winner advanced to the fourth round against the 14th placed club in Liga Leumit.
Beitar Tel Aviv Ramla won 4–2 on aggregate and remained in Liga Leumit.