Bragging rights were at the forefront of Al Nasr coach Ivan Jovanovic’s mind as he prepared to meet crosstown rivals Al Wasl. The two traditional heavyweights face off at Al Maktoum Stadium in the Arabian Gulf League.
The hosts have begun 2015/16 in fine style, only dropping points in the goalless Arabian Gulf Cup-clash between the sides on September 4.
“Without a doubt, it will be an exciting game and I think it is the most important one in this round,” the Blue Wave boss said. “I realise the value of the historic derby between Al Nasr and Al Wasl. We are determined to achieve victory, to continue the good streak in the league.”
Wasl have experienced mixed results during a daunting AGL start, beating hotly-tipped Al Jazira 2-1 in the opening round before champions Al Ain inflicted a 2-0 defeat.
But dynamic forward Caio Canedo is back in the fold after he attained the Timor-Leste passport which will let him fill the Asian slot in their four-player foreign quota.
“After the performance we presented in front of Al Ain in the last round of the league, we need a big game,” coach Gabriel Calderon said.
“The team has to prove themselves again.
“I have confidence in my players. My team will also be boosted by the return of Caio Canedo.”
Meanwhile, defensive midfielder Renan Garcia made his escape from the wilderness at Nasr yesterday by signing a one-year deal at Emirates Club.
Garcia, 29, had become unwanted after the Blue Wave snapped up Jires Kembo Ekoko last month. He replaces Morocco midfielder Issam Erraki in the Falcons’ four-player foreign quota, ahead of the summer transfer window closing today.
