Portuguese coach José Gomes, manager of Al-Fateh's first football team, emphasized the difficulty and importance of the upcoming match against Neom, in the fourteenth round of the Saudi Professional League. The coach's remarks came during a press conference held on Thursday, where he highlighted Al-Fateh's preparations for this crucial encounter.
Respecting the opponent and being fully prepared
Gomez began by acknowledging the strength of the opposing team, describing the match as "different and difficult" against a team of Neom's size and capabilities. The Portuguese coach explained that the coaching staff and players are fully aware of the responsibility on their shoulders, emphasizing their determination to deliver a performance that reflects the team's readiness for this crucial stage of the league. He stressed the importance of respecting the opponent to avoid any surprises during the ninety minutes.
Evoking the spirit of the hero and transcending the past
Speaking about the team's morale, Gomez addressed their performance in the last three rounds, noting that it displayed a glimpse of the "spirit of the 2013 league champions," referring to Al-Fateh's historic achievement. However, the veteran coach stressed the importance of not dwelling on the past, urging his players to maintain complete focus and mental concentration on the upcoming match, which he described as the true challenge now.
Challenges of absences and tactical solutions
Gomez did not hide the challenges facing the team due to absences caused by injuries and suspensions, emphasizing that the coaching staff is working hard to find suitable alternative solutions and prepare the available players optimally. The coach declined to reveal the names of those who will start, preferring to keep his cards close to his chest until the last minute, expressing his confidence in the substitutes' ability to compensate for the shortcomings and deliver the expected performance.
Fitness and Fahad Al-Zubaidi's profile
Regarding the players' physical condition, Gomez categorically denied any decline in fitness levels due to the congested fixture schedule, considering the demanding schedule a normal part of modern football and requiring well-prepared substitutes. As for Fahad Al-Zubaidi's absence from the starting lineup despite his impressive performance and crucial goal in the previous match, Gomez explained that Al-Zubaidi is a positive and well-liked player, but the team's current tactical vision and approach dictate the lineup choices, reflecting the tactical discipline the coach seeks to impose.
The coach concluded his remarks by addressing a message to Al-Fateh fans, expressing his happiness with their continued support and asking them to continue their support in the match that will be held on Saturday evening, promising to do his best to make them happy and win the three points.
