Talaiyich: No room for excuses

Croatian coach Dragan Talajic, manager of the Bahrain national team and current Gulf Cup holders, raised the banner of challenge ahead of the team’s campaign in the “Khaleeji 27” edition. Speaking to the media on the sidelines of the team’s training session, Talajic said, “We have come to Jeddah to defend our title and try to bring the cup back to Bahrain once again, but the task will be extremely difficult.” The Croatian coach added, “We respect all the participating teams, and everyone has an equal chance from the start. Whoever wants to become the champion must prove it on the pitch.” He concluded his remarks by saying, “There is no room for excuses regarding injuries or temperatures, as the weather conditions will affect all teams in the tournament. Personally, I love Jeddah, and I hope to stay here for as long as possible during our tournament journey.” The Bahrain national team will begin its title defense with a heavyweight match tomorrow, facing Qatar, the winner of the last two editions of the Asian Cup.