'Beating relegation is more important'

Abu Dhabi: Al Wahda's caretaker coach Ahmad Abdul Halim admitted that the etisalat first division league is more important to his team than the Asian Champions League at this stage of competition in both championships.

"Yes I have used more of my young players and gave rest to the key players to take a rest and be ready for our derby match against Al Jazira on Monday, at this phase of the two competitions, winning matches in the local league is more important to us than winning matches in the ACL," Abdul Halim told Gulf News.

Miracle

"One has to be realistic with our chances in both championships and select his team accordingly. In the ACL we need a miracle to go to the second round bearing in mind that we have only 5 points with two matches to go while Al Karama have 10. If they drew with us in the next match on May 7, then they will secure their berth in the second round." Abdul Halim elaborated.

"But in the domestic league we are facing the relegation threat. If we were relegated then we will not take part in the first UAE Professional League next season."