Gomez: We weren't successful in taking advantage of our chances... and missing penalties is part of the game
Portuguese coach José Gomes, manager of Al-Fateh FC, expressed his disappointment at his team's 1-1 draw against Damac FC in their match at Al-Fateh Stadium, part of the 24th round of the Saudi Professional League. Gomes emphasized that his team was unlucky not to convert their chances into goals, while also noting that missing penalties, like the one missed by star player Mourad Batna, is an inherent part of football and happens even to the best players in the world.
The general context of the match and its importance in the league standings
This match comes at a crucial stage of the Saudi Professional League, as all teams strive to improve their positions in the standings. The Saudi league is known for its high level of competition, especially in the mid-table, where there is fierce battle between similarly strong clubs like Al-Fateh and Damac. For Al-Fateh, playing at home was an ideal opportunity to secure three valuable points, climb the table, and distance themselves from the relegation zone. As for Damac, who have been performing strongly, securing a point at Al-Fateh's stadium is a positive result that will help solidify their position in the comfortable mid-table.
Gomez's analysis of the match events and his defense of Patna
In the post-match press conference, Gomez analyzed his team's performance, saying, "We created many chances and had the ability to score, but we weren't successful. In the first half, we gave Damac too much space to play in our half." The coach pointed out that his team was the better side for much of the match, but a lack of finishing prevented them from securing the victory.
Regarding Moroccan star Mourad Batna's missed penalty, a miss that could have changed the course of the match, Gomez strongly defended his player, saying: “Even the best players in the world miss penalties; it happens. In my team, I have several penalty specialists like Mourad, Sofiane Bendebka, and Firas Al-Buraikan. The player who misses a penalty is usually the one who wants to score the most, but sometimes he makes mistakes.” This statement reflects the coach's desire to relieve the pressure on his key player and maintain team morale.
Impact of the result on the future of both teams
The draw added a point to each team's tally, a result that may not satisfy Al-Fateh fans who had hoped for a home win, but it keeps the team on track to secure a stable position in the league. On the other hand, the draw represents a morale boost for Damac, who continue to accumulate points. Coach Gomez praised some of his young players, such as Wesley, emphasizing that he is "a young player with great potential who can support the team, and we must be patient with him." He concluded by noting that Damac's only goal came from a corner kick, demonstrating his team's organized defense in open play.
