Algerian coach Noureddine Zekri, manager of Al-Shabab, decided against granting his players any additional rest and opted to resume on-field preparations for their upcoming match against Al-Ettifaq. This decision followed the announcement of the postponement of the team's match against Iraqi side Zakho, which was scheduled to be played as part of the Gulf Champions League semi-finals.
The coaching staff of the Riyadh-based team opted for a short rest period for the players on Saturday evening. This rest followed their match against Al-Hilal, which resulted in a 5-3 defeat for Al-Shabab, in the 24th round of the Saudi Professional League.
The team has begun its technical and physical preparations for its upcoming match against Al-Ettifaq in the Eastern Province. The match is scheduled for 10:00 PM next Saturday, as part of the 25th round of the domestic league. The coaching staff aims to utilize the extra time available after the postponement of the Gulf Cup match for optimal preparation.
Al-Shabab enters this match in 13th place in the Roshan League standings with 25 points. Meanwhile, the home team, Al-Ettifaq, sits in 7th place with 38 points, making this match crucial for both teams' league positions.
