DUBAI // Cosmin Olaroiu, the Al Ahli manager, has urged his struggling side to shake off their domestic troubles when they begin Asian Champions League play on Wednesday night.
The UAE champions have endured a difficult time in their Arabian Gulf League defence, winning only six of 17 matches. They sit sixth in the table, 12 points behind the leaders with nine rounds remaining.
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The past three league fixtures have been particularly frustrating, with Ahli losing narrowly to Al Shabab before a 4-0 defeat to Al Wasl, followed by last Thursday’s disappointing draw at Ajman. Both Olaroiu and his players have welcomed the switch to the Champions League, as Ahli kick off their Group D campaign at home to Saudi Arabian namesakes Al Ahli.
“Since losing against Al Shabab our chances in the league have reduced,” Olaroiu said. “Everyone felt this with what was happening. It’s easy to give up.
“But it’s not important how many times you fail – it’s important how many times you come back. This is a big opportunity to show we can reach a good level despite all the problems we’ve faced.”
Olaroiu is seeking to improve on last season’s Champions League record, when Ahli failed to advance from the group stages. They will have to be significantly better than in recent weeks – Ahli have not scored in three games.
Olaroiu expects the continental competition to bring out the best in his players.
“At this moment, I prefer to play these types of games,” he said. “Starting a new competition means we have to believe and try our best to pass the group, which is our target.
“It will not be easy: we face Al Ahli first, who are currently in very good shape. I saw them play and they’re very strong, a team with great spirit now. I’m sure it’ll be a tough game, but I expect a reaction from our side.”
In contrast, Ahli, the Jeddah-based club, are in fine form, having not yet tasted defeat in this season’s Saudi Pro League. They are second in the standings and this month won the country’s coveted Crown Prince Cup.
Irrespective of the different formlines of the teams, Christian Gross, the visiting manager, insisted his side must not underestimate their opponents.
“We’re playing against one of the most famous teams from the Gulf,” he said. “The Ahli coach knows the Saudi national team very well – knows our players very well – so there’s not many secrets between the teams. Hopefully we can make some surprises on the pitch.”
jmcauley@thenational.ae
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