Al Jazira will have to be alert to combat a newly-promoted Fujairah team that have “nothing to lose” in today’s Arabian Gulf League meeting, according to coach Eric Gerets.
The two sides experienced contrasting emotions on last Monday’s opening day.
The Pride of Abu Dhabi claimed a 3-2 win at Ajman thanks to a masterclass from new signing Manuel Lanzini, while Abdulwahab Abdulqadir’s men were beaten 1-0 at home by Emirates to endure a disappointing top-flight return after their seven-year exile.
Belgian boss Gerets believes the contrast in fortunes and ambitions for the campaign ahead means his charges must be at their best against expectation-free opponents.
“These teams are dangerous as they have nothing to lose,” the 60-year-old said. “If they lose this game against us, everybody would say it’s normal.
“If they win or make a draw, it is something very important for them. We have been warned not to give them too many chances.
“If you concede a goal against them, it will be difficult to score two.”
He added: “We have a game at home, and if you want to reach your targets you have to win your games at home. That is why this one is even more important than the first one.
“The players are motivated to get these first three points at home.”
There should be a familiar face in the opposition line-up for Gerets, with Algeria centre-back Madjid Bougherra excelling under his watch at Qatari outfit Lekhwiya.
The pair lifted the Qatar Stars League and Crown Prince Cup together, before heading to different UAE clubs this summer.
Gerets said: “He [Bougherra] played a good game [against Emirates]. I watched their game in detail.
“He took the risk to be a second striker at the end to score, maybe, a goal from a cross. If we play and take the best of ourselves, it will be difficult with or without Bougherra.
“If we are not top and they are very organised, you never know,” added Gerets.
