In statements that carried a challenging tone and technical analysis, Portuguese coach Jose Gomes, manager of Al-Fateh Club, revealed his vision for the upcoming match against Al-Fayha team, highlighting the player he considers the biggest danger in the ranks of the opponent, and stressing the need to neutralize his danger to ensure a positive result.
During Friday's pre-match press conference, Gomez acknowledged that the previous match result against Al-Kholoud was unexpected, but added, "That's football; it rewards those who give their all on the pitch." He continued, "All the teams in the Roshan League are strong, and the most important thing is to put on a respectable performance in the upcoming match. Al-Fayha has a standout player in Fashion Sakala, and we will do everything we can to stop him and win the game.".
Who is Fashion Sakala? The threat coming from Zambia
Gomez's warning wasn't unfounded, as Zambian striker Fashion Sakala is considered one of Al-Fayha's most valuable assets this season. Sakala joined the "Orange" team from Scottish club Rangers and quickly proved his worth with his exceptional individual skills and blistering speed, which constantly troubles opposing defenses. Al-Fayha relies heavily on Sakala to execute swift counter-attacks, as he excels at exploiting the space behind defenders. This is what Gomez alluded to when he said that Al-Fayha depends on attacking transitions, necessitating denying him any space.
A crucial encounter in the mid-table clash
The match takes on added importance for both teams given their positions in the Saudi Professional League standings. Al-Fateh enters the game in tenth place with 21 points, aiming to return to winning ways after their recent loss and climb up the table. Meanwhile, Al-Fayha sits in thirteenth place with 14 points and hopes to capitalize on home advantage to secure a valuable victory that will distance them from the relegation zone.
Gomez vows a strong comeback
The Portuguese coach emphasized that his team is determined to overcome the effects of their recent defeat, saying, "We are trying to bounce back after this painful loss and to unite as a family to get back to winning ways." Gomes reassured the fans that he would not make any drastic changes to the tactical approach, but promised hard work and high concentration to achieve the desired goal. These statements serve as a motivational message to his players and a promise to the fans to deliver a performance worthy of the club's name.
Al-Fateh is scheduled to visit Al-Fayha at Al-Majma’ah Sports City Stadium next Sunday evening at 8:30 PM, as part of the eighteenth round of the Roshan League, in a match that promises a lot of excitement and competitiveness between two teams looking for the three points for different reasons.
