Sport | Football
Make-or-break time for Qatar
Defending champions Qatar are aware that it is a make-or-break affair tonight when they take on a strong Saudi Arabian side in the Group B match of the Gulf Cup.
- By M. Satya Narayan, Staff Reporter
- Published: 23:36 May 3, 2009
Abu Dhabi: Defending champions Qatar are aware that it is a make-or-break affair tonight when they take on a strong Saudi Arabian side in the Group B match of the Gulf Cup.
Qatar were grounded by a solitary goal by Iraq and now face the prospect of packing their bags early if they lose to the Saudis tonight.
However coach Dzemaluddin Musovic said that Qatar will not change its strategy after that loss.
"We have come here with a particular strategy and we are doing well with it. Despite our loss we will not change it as we have based it on future plans.
"However we will fight today and get past the Saudis," Musovic said at the pre-match press conference.
The Bosnian also said that their star defender Abdullah Koni will be returning home with an injury. "This will not upset us as we have many players who can take his place," said Musovic. The Saudis on the other hand are expecting a Qatari backlash.
"Qatar have lost a game and will be going all out," said Marcos Paqueta, the Brazilian head coach.
"However that will not put us under any pressure. We will play our own game and will be looking to build on that win in the first game," Paqueta said.
Saudi Arabia vs Qatar, 7.10pm, Al Nahyan Stadium, Al Wahda Club.
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