Tribune News Network
Doha
Qatar’s Al Arabi are all set for Al Ettifaq of Saudi Arabia whom they meet in the fourth round (Group B) of Gulf Club Champions League at the Ettifaq Stadium in Dammam, Saudi Arabia, on Wednesday at 8pm.
Group B also includes Qadsia of Kuwait and Riffa of Bahrain.
Al Arabi approach the upcoming match with the intention of rectifying their current predicament following a second defeat, to Ettifaq, in the third round in Doha. This loss has exacerbated their standing in the group, leaving them in fourth and last place with a mere one point.
Addressing the media on eve of the match, Al Arabi coach Anthony Hudson said, “The match for us will be difficult against a strong team and we have to fight on the field to achieve the desired result.”
Al Arabi defender Wassim Kedari said, “We are heading towards a strong match against a team that has distinguished line up, but we will focus to gain the three points.”
Al Ettifaq would go into thematch in a buoyant spirit having secured the top position in the group with nine points from three consecutive victories, thereby enhancing their prospects for semi-final qualification.
Al Arabi are determined to secure their inaugural victory in the tournament to sustain their aspirations and enhance their reputation after recording one draw and two losses.
Coach Hudson faces a formidable challenge in remedying the team’s situation, particularly as the match takes place on Ettifaq’s home ground. His objective is to achieve the best possible outcome and make amends for the earlier defeat.
Al Ettifaq, on the other hand, aim to extend their winning streak and solidify their leadership in the group, seeking to affirm their dominance to ensure qualification. The match promises to be thrilling, featuring two teams with contrasting objectives in the competition.
The Gulf Club Champions League comprises eight teams divided into two groups, with matches conducted on a home-and-away basis. The teams finishing in the first and second positions in each group will qualify for the semi-finals.
