A rare chance to enjoy a full week of uninterrupted preparation has ensured Al Ahli are in prime condition to secure their first-ever AFC Champions League away win today, according to coach Cosmin Olaroiu.
The Red Knights travel to Iran for a tricky meeting with Tractor Sazi, who currently sit second in a tight Persian Gulf Pro League.
They were last in action during a rollercoaster 3-3 opening Group D draw with Al Ahli Jeddah seven days ago in which the struggling treble holders showed great character to come back from behind three times, the final occasion occurring when down to 10 men following skipper Luis Jimenez’s red card.
A two-week gap was opened in the fixture list to provide the UAE sides with an opportunity to prepare for continental competition, a decision Olaroiu was grateful for when speaking during his pre-match press conference in the snowy northwestern city of Tabriz.
“As usual, when you play against Iranian teams it is never an easy match, especially when they have a big support,” the Romanian said.
“For us, it is the first time this season to get a week to prepare and train. I hope we get the best out of this chance.
“Tractor is a strong team, especially after [Iran veteran] Andranik Teymourian recovered and is back to the team, giving more balance to their midfield. Also, [striker] Edinho played before in UAE [for Sharjah] and he is currently the top scorer in the Iranian league.”
Ahli have registered six draws in their last eight ACL matches, a run which cost them a round-of-16 spot last year.
They will attempt to breathe life into their current campaign against opponents who are the reigning Hazfi Cup champions and will be eager to get points on the board after losing 2-1 to Uzbekistan’s Nasaf last week.
