Our Arabian Gulf League reporter Matt Monaghan decides his picks of the week in the three categories: player, goal and coach of the week.
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Player of the week
Ali Khaseif (Al Jazira)
The UAE and Pride of Abu Dhabi skipper played for the first time in three months on Thursday night, providing an unbeatable presence as a 2-0 defeat was inflicted on Arabian Gulf League champions Al Ahli.
Both injury and national service have kept Khaseif away, his time with the military evident in his noticeably sleeker frame.
He showed great athleticism throughout, an Ahmed Khalil penalty save the highlight.
Goal of the week
Makhete Diop (Al Dhafra)
It is evident every time you see the Senegal international that you are witnessing a player who deserves a grander stage than mid-table Dhafra can provide.
The striker registered his 100th goal for his club in breathtaking fashion, scoring from the half-way line during the 1-1 draw against leaders Al Ain.
His powerful, dipping effort left UAE goalkeeper Khalid Essa with no chance.
Coach of the week
Gabriel Calderon (Al Wasl)
Calderon has drilled the Cheetahs to press hard and pass intelligently, regista Hugo Viana and Brazilian forward Fabio De Lima the stars.
Wasl put on a near-perfect display against fourth-placed Al Wahda, securing a dominant 3-0 triumph.
They are strong outsiders for May’s President’s Cup.
Gabriel Calderon targets top-five finish for @AlWaslSC http://t.co/0fmJNrj1KV @AGLeague @mattmonaghan360 pic.twitter.com/KfshNJOrlV
— Sport360° (@Sport_360) March 7, 2015
Tit-bits
Chance for Ali to experiment
Continuity is UAE coach Mahdi Ali’s greatest strength. But change could be forced upon him, the much-delayed Arabian Gulf Super Cup between Al Ahli and Al Ain coming towards the end of the international break between March 23-31.
And up to two-thirds of his Asian Cup squad could be engaged.
This would be great news for the likes of Al Shabab defender Mohammed Ayed, Al Nasr’s Tariq Ahmed and Bani Yas loanee Bandar Al Ahbabi.
