Al Ain to clash with Al Hilal

The Asian Super Cup Championship Group C, which commenced last Sunday at Sheikh Tahnoon bin Mohammed stadium in Al Ain, will witness two crucial games this evening, in the second round of the four-team event.

Al Ain will take on the formidable Saudi side, Al Hilal, in the opening match of the day, while strong favourites Al Estighlal from Iran, will tackle it out with the Qatari league champions in the second game.

The first encounter kicks off at 5.35pm and the second at 8.50pm.

In their last meeting, Al Ain recorded the second victory in their rivalry with the Saudi club, when they beat them by a solitary goal, netted by Ghareeb Hareb off a penalty kick. The hosts look enthusiastic to continue their success. They concluded their preparations yesterday with a one-hour training session led by French coach, Bruno Metsu.

The Al Ain trainer assured that the morale and fitness of his players were high. He asked them to stay alert in today's decisive game and face their rivals with more concentration.

"This game is a turning point for both teams. A win will no doubt help my squad meet Al Estighlal with more confidence on the concluding day. Such an outcome will inevitably put Al Sad out of contention. The results of the opening day will have repercussions in today's round," said Bruno Metsu.

He admitted that his boys lack physical fitness and appeared tired in the second half against Al Hilal. "Despite this, Al Ain players displayed the capability to overcome difficulties. I am sure they will prove their potential when they meet the Qataris," Metsu said.

The French coach lauded their opponent's brilliant display in the opener against Al Estighlal. He warned his players to be aware of the dangerous incursions by the Al Sad front line, which includes Brazilian striker, Sergio, and the dynamic Abdu Kader Kelta from Ivory Coast.

Metsu called on his players to display team work and allow no room to their rivals. He said the technical standard of the four participating teams was similar.

"All contenders have an equal chance to keep their hopes alive till the concluding round on Saturday. Al Hilal have good veteran players who form the Saudi national team. Al Estighlal are more organised and play an attacking and open football.

"The Qatari side is another excellent team but they were unlucky in their opening encounter. Despite this, some minor details remain unseen and all coaches are treating it their own way," Metsu stated.

When asked to evaluate the unconvincing display of his second African pro, Candia Trawri, Metsu said: "Trawri is a big player with excellent technical abilities. His presence, besides Sango's, helped the team to demonstrate neat football. They complement each other. Trawri scored a number of goals despite his short stay with the team."

The Iranian outfit, Al Estighlal, are ready to continue their successful march when they face Al Hilal in the second game. But the Saudis will endeavour to come back into the competition. They know a second defeat will end their hopes in the championship. Both coaches - Adams of Al Hilal and Roland Koch of Al Estighlal - consider the game a difficult one for their teams.

Al Estighlal are searching for three points more to face Al Ain in the last game with six points in hand, whereas Al Hilal are yet to open their account. Their newly appointed coach, Adams, said he would make some minor changes in his line up.

The Brazilian star Romario who signed a $1.5 million deal with Al Sad of Qatar, will hold a press conference tomorrow at the Intercontinental Hotel. This was announced late yesterday by Brazilian National Louis, the player's manager.

Romario will talk about his future with the Qatari club as well as the decision taken by the Asian Football Federation that refused his participation with his new club in the ongoing Asian event organised by Al Ain club.