Al Ahli coach Nebojsa Jovovic spoke to the media ahead of their 2022-2023 season QNB Stars League Week 19 match against Al Arabi.

“I have full confidence in the team’s ability to show a strong reaction and return to the path of victories in the league after the last loss against Al Shamal.

“We are entering a new challenge in order to return to victories, especially after an undeserved loss against Al Shamal, compared to the opportunities created by the team and the distinguished performance of our players.

“The challenge lies in the team’s need to win and its loss of a number of its players due to suspension, most notably Mohammed Hussein Kanaani, a strong force in defence. But as a coach, I must always work to address technical matters and face the numerical shortage in the ranks.

“We will give off everything against Al Arabi, considering the match as one of the strongest for us. Al Arabi are a highly-respected team and facing them will not be easy,” said Nebojsa.

Al Ahli player Yazan Al Naimat said, “The Al Arabi match will not be easy, but as players we will make every effort to achieve victory and satisfy our fans, especially after the previous loss against Al Shamal.

“We presented a good level, but were not successful in coming up with the three points. Now, it is a challenge for us, as players, to return the path of victories.

“Facing Al Arabi is important and we, as players, must provide the required level to produce a positive result.”