Al-Fateh head coach Jose Gomes has described Thursday’s match against Saudi Pro League leaders Al-Hilal as a “tough test”. He acknowledged Al-Hilal’s strength and their record, saying his side must be fully prepared for the challenge. We are going to face one of the strongest teams in the history of the Saudi League. This is …
Al-Fateh head coach Jose Gomes has described Thursday’s match against Saudi Pro League leaders Al-Hilal as a “tough test”. He acknowledged Al-Hilal’s strength and their record, saying his side must be fully prepared for the challenge.
We are going to face one of the strongest teams in the history of the Saudi League. This is the same team that holds the Guinness World Record for most consecutive wins, Gomes said on Tuesday.
Al-Fateh’s position
Al-Fateh are currently bottom of the league table. The team has managed just one win and three draws in 14 matches. Portuguese coach Jose Gomes, who was appointed on December 15, spoke openly about the current state of the team. He said:
There is no doubt that this match will be extremely difficult. We must leave no stone unturned in our preparation and performance.
Update on players’ fitness
Gomes also revealed that striker Janini Tavares is not yet fully fit. After joining the club, I reviewed his medical condition and started special exercises for his recovery. He played 30 minutes in the last match, but that is his limit at the moment.
Strategy against Al-Hilal
Gomes said the team respects Al-Hilal but they will go into Riyadh with a winning mentality. He said: Our opponents play with great players and a great manager. Still, we will go onto the pitch with only one goal: victory.
Al-Hilal’s position
Al-Hilal top the table with 37 points and lead Al-Ittihad on goal difference.
