Al Ahli coach Nebojsa Jovovic spoke to the media ahead of their 2021-2022 season QNB Stars League Week 7 match against Al Arabi.

“The match against Al Arabi will be different from all of our previous matches, given that it pits two neighbouring clubs against each other on the one hand and the need to restore our team’s balance on the other hand, especially after our last match against Al Khor, where we had to concede a draw (2-2) after being ahead by two goals late into the game.

“Our results did not match our performance in the previous rounds, except for the last match, which is a lesson for the team that it must learn in order to achieve victories in the upcoming matches.

“Al Arabi are a distinguished team with good results and a great level this season. They have big players such as Yousef Msakni and Aron Gunnarsson, and they are earning respect and appreciation for their performance and results.

“We need special support for this important match from the Al Ahli fans, who were disappointed after our drawn match with Al Khor. Many fans asked me and posted their comments on the social media about the team’s level this season. I want the club’s fans active not only on social media, but they must attend the matches at the stadium in order to support the players and boost their morale. It is applicable especially in the match against Al Arabi.

“Al Ahli will be better in the match against Al Arabi and the club’s fans should support the players at the stadium,” said Jovovic.

Al Ahli player Hassan Ahmed Palang said, “Facing Al Arabi is difficult, but we are determined to put behind the disappointments and provide our best level that will guarantee us positive results.

“We respect Al Arabi, who are an organized and strong team, and their results prove that. They are a team that is developing with coach Younes Ali, but we will give everything we have for the three points and have completed our preparations for this match.

“Our performance does not reflect on our results but, as players, we are determined to satisfy our fans in this match.”