Sousa: Our ambition goes beyond mere participation

National team coach Helio Souza affirmed that the “Blue” are in the best possible shape to face their Saudi counterparts in the opening match of the Gulf Arab Cup, emphasizing that the team’s ambition goes beyond mere participation to competing with all other teams.

He made these remarks during a press conference held alongside national team player Fahad Al-Hajri at the media center of the Gulf Arab Cup (Gulf Cup of Nations 27), which kicks off today in Jeddah.

Souza stated that the team’s preparatory camp had been good, adding, “We are building a team to compete in the upcoming Asian Cup, and everything we are doing is moving in that direction.”

He noted that the technical staff is working to elevate the team’s level, pointing out that comparing the Blue’s performance in the past with their current level highlights the extent of the progress achieved.

Souza added, “We are still in the building phase. We want to win, develop, and be the best version of ourselves every day, and that is what we are working on with the players.”

He highlighted the efforts to build a new identity and style for the team to help it reach the standing it deserves. Regarding the opening match, he said that the Saudi team has a strong history in the tournament and possesses players with international experience, alongside a strong domestic league featuring high-level players. He noted that facing them on their home ground, in front of their fans, and in a tournament with significant momentum requires special preparation, adding that the Blue are looking forward to the start of the competition to showcase the progress they have made.

He added, “Since my first day with the national team, we have been working to build a team capable of defeating any opponent.”

He continued, “We are the most successful team in the history of this tournament. We face many challenges and must always strive to improve. We are proud of what we have achieved in the past, but we have not yet reached the level we aspire to. The good news is that we are on the right track.”

For his part, national team player Fahad Al-Hajri expressed his gratitude to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for its hospitality and warm welcome. He stated that the national team has a significant legacy in the tournament and that its goal upon participating remains to compete for the title. He noted that the Blue will face a strong group comprising the national teams of Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and Oman.

Al-Hajri affirmed that the opening match will be difficult and important, noting that the first match in any tournament carries special significance.