Al-Hilal's Italian coach, Simone Inzaghi, emphasized the great importance of the upcoming match against Al-Wahda of the UAE, which will conclude the group stage of the AFC Champions League. During the pre-match press conference, the coach explained that although the match is a formality after both teams officially secured qualification for the next round, it holds special significance for his club, which aims to finish the group stage with a victory that will solidify their lead and send a strong message to their rivals.
The context of the match and its competitive importance
The AFC Champions League is the most prestigious club competition in Asia, and Al Hilal boasts a rich history in the tournament, being the most decorated club in its history. This match comes at a time when both Al Hilal of Saudi Arabia and Al Wahda of the UAE have already secured their places in the knockout stage, but the battle for first place remains. Finishing top of the group gives the team a slight advantage in the Round of 16 draw, in addition to boosting the morale of the players and fans before entering the decisive knockout rounds.
Team tactics and potential absences
Speaking about the tactical aspects, the coach hinted at the possibility of Brazilian player Leonardo missing the match, saying, “Leonardo is training with the group according to his condition, and he might not be available tomorrow, but the final lineup will be clear after the last training session.” He added, “I have many options in the squad, and we will approach the match with utmost seriousness. It’s an important match for us, and we hope to perform well and play to win.” These statements open the door to the possibility of resting some key players and giving substitutes a chance to prove themselves, while maintaining the team’s overall readiness for upcoming domestic and continental competitions.
Coordination with the national team and its positive impact
On another note, the coach praised the visit of the Saudi national football team's coaching staff to the club's headquarters, describing it as "fruitful and important." He explained that this direct communication to monitor Al-Hilal's international players reflects a high level of professionalism and coordination between the club and the national team. Al-Hilal is a key source of players for the Saudi national team, and this cooperation contributes to ensuring close monitoring of the players' technical and physical condition, which is vital for achieving success in international competitions. The coach concluded his remarks by emphasizing the need to maintain the high level of focus the players have shown in recent matches, stressing the importance of continuing with the same strong defensive approach and avoiding conceding goals to maintain their winning streak.
