Portuguese coach Jose Gomes, manager of Al-Fateh, stressed that facing Al-Ahli remains a big and difficult challenge regardless of the circumstances surrounding the opponent, rejecting the idea that the absences in the ranks of “Al-Raqui” would be a reason to make his team’s task easier in the anticipated match within the Saudi Professional League competitions.
Gomez's statements and realism in dealing with the opponent
During Wednesday's press conference to discuss the upcoming match, Gomez firmly addressed questions about whether Al-Fateh would benefit from the absence of some of Al-Ahly's international stars participating in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations or due to injury. The Portuguese coach stated, "Yes, Al-Ahly is suffering from absences, but they are not an easy team to beat, and we hope to win against them." He further explained his philosophy for dealing with top teams: "Al-Ahly has a strong bench and other influential players. Even if a key player is absent, we've seen what the substitutes have done in their previous matches, and we will try to neutralize Al-Ahly's attacking threat and prevent them from receiving the ball.".
Al-Fateh's absences and tactical challenge
Gomez also addressed his team's internal situation, noting the absence of influential player Zaidou Youssef from Al-Fateh's ranks, while simultaneously expressing his complete confidence in the replacement prepared during training sessions. The coach explained that the plan relies on high concentration, speed, and individual skills, emphasizing that "facing Al-Ahli will be difficult; they are a strong and experienced team, and the pressure of matches is an integral part of modern football.".
The teams' positions in the standings and the importance of points
This match is of paramount importance to both sides, but for entirely different reasons. Al-Fateh, the former league champions, are experiencing one of their most difficult seasons, currently sitting in 17th place (second to last) in the Roshan League standings with only 5 points. The "Model Club" will be looking to capitalize on home advantage and the support of their fans to secure the points and begin their escape from the looming threat of relegation that has been haunting them so early this season.
In contrast, Al-Ahly enters the match in fourth place with 19 points, aspiring to continue its advance towards the top of the standings and compete for the title, relying on its long history and powerful attacking force that has proven its efficiency even in the absences.
Date of the anticipated match
Al-Fateh Club Stadium is scheduled to host this tough match on Friday afternoon, December 26, at 4:05 PM, as part of the eleventh round of the Saudi Roshan League, in a match that cannot be divided between the two for the home team.
