Al Ahli coach Nebojsa Jovovic
Doha: Al Ahli coach Nebojsa Jovovic yesterday said his team would be looking to move up the points table in the QNB Stars League when they play Al Shahania in a round 18 clash today.
Al Ahli are placed eight on the points table whereas Al Shahaniya are at the bottom in the 12-team league. “We had worked during the break to prepare the team well and improve the performance. There was a focus on the physical and technical aspects in order to be better in the upcoming matches,” Jovovic said yesterday.
“Certainly, the competition will not be easy as all clubs have full squads at their disposal. “Everyone has the motivation to give their best,” he added. “Al Shahania match is the first after the break and I have prepared the team for a game that will not be easy. Al Shahania are looking for a positive result for them to survive.
“They are a strong side. It is true that they are in the last position in the table, but they will fight like all clubs to achieve victories in the remaining five matches,” Jovovic said.
“There is no doubt that Tunisian striker Ahmed Akaichi is an important addition to our ranks. He joined the squad recently and trained well. He is a big name and has the quality Al Ahli are seeking.
“All clubs want to achieve victories in the last rounds and provide the best levels. What is certain is that clubs have prepared well for this stage,” Jovovic added. Al Ahli player Nabil El Zhar said yesterday:
“The preparations were mainly aimed at achieving the best physical and technical readiness when the action resumes. The players have a big desire and enthusiasm to provide good performances after being away from competitive matches for more than four months. Everyone waited for a long time to return to the stadiums and that will have a positive impact on the players’ desire to provide the best level.”
El Zhar added: “Al Shahania match will not be easy and we are aware of its importance. They will fight to improve their position and all matches will be difficult. But we, the players, are ready to give our best to achieve victories.”
Al Shahania coach Nabil Anwar said yesterday: “We could reach a good level technically and physically, and I hope the team will succeed in the difficult next stage, especially since it is coming after a long break.” Anwar added: “I thank the club management for its confidence in assigning me the task of training the team. I am not a stranger to the team and I have been working with the squad for three seasons and I know all the players and their capabilities. No doubt, it’s a difficult task. However, I am confident we will overcome the challenge.” Nabil said: “Regarding the departure of Tunisian strikers Ahmed Akaichi and Ali Ferydoun, I would say their exit is a loss for the team. I respect their decisions.”
Al Shahania player Saad Hussein said yesterday: “Our preparations for the Al Ahli match went off well in the last few days. We are in a difficult position. Our goal is to stay in the top flight. However, nothing is impossible in football and we are used to these competitions. God willing, we will achieve our goal of staying in the First Division. As far as coach Nabil is concerned, I would say former coach (Jose) Murcia had a style of his own and so does Nabil."
