Al Ahli coach Nebojsa Jovovic spoke to the media ahead of their 2022-2023 season QNB Stars League Week 17 match against Al Wakrah.

“We are going through different technical conditions that led to the team losing two matches in one week, and the team suffered a lot because the number of players is limited due to injuries and suspensions. But as a coach I always rely on the players who are in the ranks of the team and they perform in an excellent way, distinguished with a high spirit and fighting on the field for a positive result.

“I have great confidence in the players, their physical and mental abilities, and their high spirit in performance, as they showed against Qatar SC despite the loss. At the same time, I am always proud of them.

“Al Wakrah are different from other clubs and have great technical capabilities and a distinguished level in all departments. They are a strong team, but Al Ahli have  high spirit and desire to win, which makes the match strong between the two teams.

“Our technical staff do not focus on the negative aspects and always focus on developing the technical and physical aspects of the players for the good of the team. We do not search for the reasons for the past losses or excuses for not winning, but I know that the options are limited in front of me regarding the players.

“I do not hold the players responsible for the loss against Qatar SC, as a coach I take full responsibility in all circumstances,” said Nebojsa.

Al Ahli player Islam Al Sharif said, “We will make every effort to achieve a positive result and will play with a high spirit in order to please our fans.

“The Al Wakrah match has six points, not three points, given the teams’ battle to reach the top four. So this match is of great value and its points are important.”