Al Ahli match important step for Al Ain: Mamic
abu dhabi –— Al Ain FC coach Zoran Mamic said his players are strong enough to come good against Al Ahli Saudi FC in the AFC Champions League match at the Hazza bin Zayed Stadium on Tuesday.
A win will see Al Ain push Al Ahli Saudi to second spot in the Group C points table.
“Al Ain will face one of the best clubs in the region. Our mission isn’t easy but I have trust in the ability of my team to be strong enough to achieve the continental goals,” said Mamic during the Press conference in Al Ain on Monday.
The Croatian said Al Ain are looking at three points. “This will be an important step for Al Ain in the competition.”
However, it will be a tough challenge considering their previous clash, last month, ended in a 2-2 draw. “Both the teams got good knowledge about each other and there are no secrets. Both the teams
> Al Ain v Al Ahli
Hazza bin Zayed Stadium, 7.35pm (UAE TIME) are motivated to offer their best in every round, especially when the challenge is tied to the Asian Championship. We will give our all and fight for the best result.”
Ismail Ahmed is back to shoulder responsibilities in defence, which has been wobbly of late.
Mamic, however, chose not to pick holes in defence and said: “Our concept is based on collective responsibility, and certainly return of Ismail Ahmed will be a strong addition to the back line. The performance by defence will improve against Al Ahli.”
Meanwhile, Ismail Ahmed promised Al Ain will play a strong game to enhance chances of reaching the next stage. Ahmed noted Al Ahli as a tough opponent. “Each team will be keen to show their fighting spirit and focus on the executing technical strategies.”