Al Wasl could emerge as surprise Arabian Gulf League title contenders in the coming months, according to coach Gabriel Calderon.
The Cheetahs have enjoyed steady progress up the table since the Argentine was drafted in following a disastrous opening under predecessor Jorginho. They currently sit eighth ahead of tonight’s trip to second-bottom Ajman, with a third victory in four top-flight matches an achievable target.
“Generally, anything is possible,” the ex-Bani Yas boss said. “During my time with the team, we have wasted five points and could have been in an improved position.
“In the second part of the season, we will have four foreigners who are ready to play [as key addition Hugo Viana can be registered in January] and I hope the team will be complete. I hope that the results become better and better.”
Three of the top four positions in the standings are currently taken by sides outside the established heavyweights, with Al Jazira the exception in second place.
Al Shabab have the chance to usurp leaders Al Wahda when they travel to Fujairah. Boss Caio Junior was not discounting the challenge of the eastern Emirate-outfit after they recovered from a 7-0 mauling from Bani Yas by beating Sharjah.
“The match will be tough in front of Fujairah, who came back strongly in front of Sharjah,” the Brazilian said. “They are characterised by the presence of players on a high level.
“The Arabian Gulf League is difficult and balanced. You have to understand every game on its own, we have to deal intelligently with this game to come. Competition for the championship is still open and it is too early to know who will be the champions.”
Meanwhile, Bani Yas boss Luis Garcia has urged his players to banish the memory of their heartbreaking defeat to Al Jazira.
A six-game winning run in all competitions came to a halt in Abu Dhabi last Friday, courtesy of Jucilei’s last-minute goal.
Spaniard Garcia believed his charges had “forgotten the loss” and were focused on getting a result at Al Dhafra today, despite the potential loss of striker Denis Stracqualursi to injury.
He said: “We must win the next match as we need to get back to winning way. Especially as we cannot believe we lost the last match.
“Stracqualursi is not good now, I do not know if he is fit enough. We might have to play Haboush Saleh up front, but I know he is not like Denis.”
