Al Ahli calling on fans ‘to stand behind us when you need them most’

Amith Passela previews the weekend's clash between Al Ahli and Al Wahda in the Arabian Gulf League, with the stuttering champions in dire need of three points.

Al Ahli fans shown during an Arabian Gulf League match at the Rashid Stadium in April. Christopher Pike / The National

Al Ahli manager Cosmin Olaroiu has called for the club's fans to rally behind the team to help them get their spluttering Arabian Gulf League title defence back on track.

The Dubai side have failed to win their past three league games, picking up just two points in the process, and they are seven points adrift of leaders Al Wasl, albeit with a game in hand.

They take on fourth-placed Al Wahda, who are one point ahead of then, on Saturday at the Rashid Stadium, and Olaroiu is looking to the supporters to play a key role.

“This game has become more important for us after the results of our last three games,” he said. “Our fans turned up in large numbers in the last game against Wasl and I wish they turn up again to stand behind us when you need them most. My players will need every bit of support and motivation for this game.”

Eisa Ahmed, the Ahli right-back, said recent results did not reflect how the side had played, but they now needed to get points on the board.

“The results of our last three games have been disappointing because we didn’t deserve that,” he said. “The best way to address this setback is to win the three points.”

Wahda, who played out a goalless draw against Emirates in their last match, are boosted by the return from suspension of top scorer Sebastian Tagliabue.

“He certainly strengthens our attack but as I have said repeatedly Wahda is not a one-player team,” Wahda manager Javier Aguirre said.

In the early game on Saturday, Al Jazira play Al Shabab, while Sharjah travel to Ras Al Khaimah for a meeting with Emirates in the late fixture.

Henk ten Cate, the Jazira manager, said it was an emotional game for him and the two teams to pay tribute to Caio Junior, the former coach of both Jazira and Shabab who was among the members of the Brazilian first division club Chapecoense killed in the plane crash in Colombia earlier in the week.

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• Tributes: Al Jazira and Al Shabab pay respects to former manager Caio Junior

“This game means a lot to me at a personal level,” said the Dutchman. “Caio Junior worked with both teams and I hope the two clubs can pay tribute to their former coach by playing beautiful football.

“On the game, it’s important for both as we occupy the second and third positions in the league. I wish my players display their usual character to return with the three points.”

Four games are slated for Sunday with Al Ain against Wasl the most enticing clash.

Al Nasr will be at home to Hatta, Baniyas will hope to end a run of eight defeats in a row when they host Kalba, while Dibba make the long trip to Al Dhafra.

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