Exceptional preparations for Ahli ahead of Adelaide showdown
الأربعاء، 17 ديسمبر 2008 - 13:40
كتب : وكالات
Ahli had an extraordinary training session in freezing weather on Wednesday in preparation for their last FIFA Club World Cup game against Adelaide United FC.
It was teeming with rain in Yokohama, nevertheless, the session witnessed a great deal of both fun and excitement.
Head coach Manuel Jose was keen to keep up the team spirit and maintain the sense of humor among the players in order to avoid last-minute injuries.
The Portuguese tactician deployed his men on unusual positions in a practice game, having played full-back Wael Gomaa and goalie Ahmed Adel Abdul-Monem as strikers.
During the match, Defender Mohamed Samir scored an own-goal.
Although the session was well-tempered, some of the players were overenthusiastic, which could have caused unnecessary setbacks.
Forward Hani Al-Egeizi could have sustained an injury after being subjected to a harsh challenge by Ahmed Al-Sayed, but no harm befell.
In The Public Eye
The training session drew the attention of a multitude of reporters and media men from many countries.
What was even more impressive is the attendance of a bunch of kids, who paid the African champions a visit to give them a warm salute.
The young Japanese students, who came from seven different schools, made a medium-sized banner for the Red Devils.
Later on, Several pictures were taken of the kids with the Egyptian players.
The squad left shortly after the session, in accordance to the coaching staff strict directive about having enough rest and sleep.
The Cairo giants are eager to atone for their frustrating 4-2 loss to Pachuca in the first round.