Northern Irish coach Brendan Rodgers, manager of Al-Qadisiyah, emphasized the crucial importance of the upcoming match against Al-Ittihad on Thursday, as part of the 17th round of the Saudi Professional League. Rodgers described the match as "difficult" given the strength and stature of the opponent in Saudi football.
During the pre-match press conference, Rodgers said: “We are preparing for a tough game against a top-class team, and our aim is to continue the excellent performance we have shown in the last six matches since I took over.” He added confidently: “Our attacking approach will continue, and I am satisfied with the players’ mentality and performance on the pitch. I have complete faith that the team will continue to improve regardless of the opponent.”.
The context of the confrontation and its importance in the Roshan League
This match comes at a time when the Saudi Professional League is experiencing unprecedented competitiveness, attracting international stars and top-tier coaches, which has raised the level and quality of the matches. Al-Ittihad, one of the giants of Saudi football and a former champion, is always a formidable opponent and is striving to maintain its position at the top of the standings. Meanwhile, Al-Qadisiyah, under the leadership of Rodgers, is looking to prove itself and achieve a positive result that will strengthen its position in the league table and confirm the remarkable progress the team has made.
The impact of absences on both teams
Rodgers addressed the absences that will affect both teams, noting the expulsion of Al-Ittihad goalkeeper Rajkovic in their last match against Al-Ettifaq. He commented, "The absence of an influential player is significant, but they have other goalkeepers of a good caliber who can fill the void." Conversely, the coach revealed his own team's challenges, confirming the continued absence of Brazilian player Otavio, a key pillar of the team's midfield. He said, "We will also be missing Otavio against Al-Ittihad. He is an important player, and we will strive to compensate for these absences in a way that maintains the team's level and tactical balance.".
Praise for the former coach and continuing the journey
In a professional gesture, Rodgers concluded his remarks by praising the team's former coach, Spaniard Michel Gonzalez, emphasizing the significant role he played in building the team. He stated, "Michel Gonzalez contributed greatly to Al-Qadisiyah, and I came to continue the team's journey and build upon the solid foundation he laid, without forgetting the outstanding achievements and results he attained in the past." These statements reflect Rodgers' desire to achieve technical stability and continue the team's success.
