Al-Qadsia and Al-Arabi Face 'Tajik' Tests Today
Al-Qadsia hosts Regar-TadAZ, while Al-Arabi faces Istiklol Dushanbe in the AFC Challenge League.
Translated by Qiyas from الأنباء — Original source
Abdulaziz Jassim faces a “Tajik” test for our local side today in the second round of the AFC Challenge League, as Al-Qadsia hosts Regar-TadAZ of Tajikistan in Group C at the Mohammed Al-Hamad Stadium, while Al-Arabi, the home side, hosts Istiklol Dushanbe, also in Group C.
The Yellow team aims to kill two birds with one stone today by securing a win, breaking the tie with their rival, and advancing to the quarter-finals if Bangladesh’s Fortis draws with India’s Goa or if Goa loses. This means concentration will be the key to achieving the goal, as the opponent is formidable and possesses a strong attack and players capable of changing the game. Therefore, caution is required to avoid overcommitting forward and risking a goal that could disrupt coach Mohamed Ibrahim’s plans.
Meanwhile, Al-Arabi is enduring very difficult circumstances, having failed to win in six consecutive matches—a negative record that must not be repeated today, as it would mean elimination from the tournament. Players will fight hard to secure their first victory and revive their hopes against hosts Istiklol, who will seek a win tonight after their loss to Lebanon’s Nejmeh. Nejmeh will face Syria’s Al-Hamraa today. Both teams won their opening matches in the group.
