Abu Dhabi/Dubai: Playmaker Manuel Lanzini paid tribute to his teammates after starring on his Al Jazira debut in their 3-2 win at Ajman on the opening day of the Arabian Gulf League on Monday evening.
The mercurial Argentinian scored two sublime goals in the hard-fought victory, his brace supplemented by fellow debutant Mirko Vucinic’s 71st-minute penalty.
Boris Kabi had restored parity for the hosts from the penalty spot in first-half injury time after Lanzini put his side ahead with five minutes left of the opening period. Ahmad Malalla’s 82nd minute strike then set up a nervy finish for Eric Gerets’ title contenders, but they clung on for a precious victory.
Attacking midfielder Lanzini, who arrived at Al Jazira in the summer from Argentinian giants River Plate, said: “I’d like to thank all my teammates for the three points, but now we must focus on the next game against Fujairah [on Saturday].”
Lanzini’s two goals served notice that he will be one of the stars of the new season, with both the products of excellent technique. His opener was a fine volley after former Juventus striker Vucinic chested down a cross into his path.
Yet his second goal was even more impressive, Lanzini weaving his way past a host of defenders before finishing with aplomb past goalkeeper Al Rabea Mesmari.
Meanwhile, Bani Yas boss Luis Garcia pronounced himself satisfied with his side’s 1-1 draw at home to 10-man Al Nasr late on Monday.
Haboush Saleh gave the hosts the lead after just nine minutes, but Brett Holman struck the equaliser shortly before the break.
But the game was more memorable for Al Nasr striker Ebrahima Toure’s 70th-minute dismissal for a backhanded punch at Mohammad Jaber. The Bani Yas man received lengthy treatment for a bloodied eye and had to be helped off the pitch by medical staff.
An Al Nasr statement after the match said the club would consider taking disciplinary action against Toure, their 16-goal top-scorer last season.
The Arabian Gulf League’s disciplinary committee could also increase Toure’s automatic two-match suspension for a straight red card and fine him.
Yet Bani Yas manager Garcia said he did not see the incident, preferring to focus on the outcome of the match.
Garcia said: “To earn a point in the first league game is a satisfying start. We are rebuilding the team and had little time before the first game, as the new players arrived late and some of the key local players were on national duty during our camp.
“I think we can be perfectly satisfied with the result and the performance, particularly in the first half. We will, of course, be looking to build on this game and look forward to a better result.”
Bani Yas’ next league assignment is a trip to AGL new boys Kalba on Sunday evening.
Elsewhere, Brazilian coach Jorginho has called for patience from Al Wasl fans after his new-look side squandered a two-goal lead to draw 2-2 with Al Dhafra.
The 1994 World Cup winner has overseen big changes over the summer after the Dubai club finished 12th last season.
And he said: “I was expecting to win this game. And we would have after scoring twice. During half-time, I warned my players not to get distracted, but they did.
“But there are lessons to be learnt. We have just two players from last year’s squad so everyone is new to this new philosophy. Don’t expect miracles from me. Change will take time and we all need this time to bring in the success.”
