Ibrahim Diaky in no doubt about Al Ain’ chances against El Jaish

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  • Showing who is Boss: Ibrahim Diaky (number 18).

    Veteran midfielder Ibrahim Diaky has insisted he has no doubts about Al Ain’s progression in the 2016 AFC Champions League, despite their losing start to tonight’s opponents El Jaish.

    The 2014 semi-finalists dominated last week’s Group D opener, but some poor finishing and even-worse defending contributed to a 2-1 loss. The sides meet again for the return match in Doha and Diaky, 33, is convinced the Boss will prevail this time.

    He said: “It was really painful because the first game is always very important for us to get a good start. But I’m not worried.

    “We just need to be more focused and I think we will qualify.”

    This evening’s hosts are no slouches. They sit second in the Qatar Stars League and boast a fearsome attacking trident of Rom-arinho, Sardor Rashidov and Abd-errazak Hamdallah.

    Coach Sabri Lamouchi declared the weight of expectation rested purely on the visitors to Abdullah Bin Khalifa Stadium.

    He said: “My team are determined to vigorously prove the eligibility of our first victory.

    “We will not suffer from any pressure before we face Al Ain. It is our competitor who is under pressure.”

    January-buy Douglas endured a poor night last Wednesday. He missed several golden chances, as well as only legitimately scoring one of three penalties taken.

    But the Brazilian striker recovered with a brace in Saturday’s 4-0 President’s Cup demolition of Ittihad Kalba.

    “I’m really glad and happy for him because he needs the confidence,” Diaky said.

    “His two goals will give him more confidence to start the remaining games in a good way.

    “We all believe in him. He just needs more time to understand exactly our way of playing.”

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