Date of the Al-Ittihad vs. Al-Gharafa match in the AFC Champions League and details of the preparations
The coaching staff of Al-Ittihad's first football team, led by Portuguese coach Conceição, has begun intensifying technical and physical preparations for the crucial upcoming match against Qatari side Al-Gharafa. This match is part of the seventh round of the group stage in the AFC Champions League, and will be held at King Abdullah Sports City Stadium ("The Shining Jewel") in Jeddah on Tuesday evening at 9:15 PM.
Turning the page on El Clásico and focusing on continental competitions
In a crucial meeting with the players, Conceição urged the team to put behind them the painful 2-0 defeat they recently suffered against arch-rivals Al-Nassr in the 20th round of the Saudi Professional League. The coach stressed that dwelling on the past would be futile at this critical stage of the season, emphasizing that true reconciliation with Al-Ittihad's vast fan base begins with the upcoming match against Al-Gharafa, by delivering a performance worthy of the club's reputation and securing the three points necessary to guarantee a place in the knockout stages.
A new tactic to counter Al-Gharafa
On the field, Conceição is focusing on intensifying tactical drills during current training sessions, aiming to address the defensive errors that surfaced in the Al-Nassr match, as well as to enhance attacking efficiency. The coach is striving to adopt the most suitable tactical approach that will allow him to control the midfield and select the ideal starting lineup capable of unlocking the Qatari defense. This match is of paramount importance, not only to compensate for the domestic setback but also to reaffirm the strength of Saudi football on the continental stage.
Qualification calculations and team position
Al-Ittihad enters the match in sixth place in the West Zone group standings with nine points, accumulated from six matches played so far in the group stage. This tally is considered good, but not entirely reassuring given the fierce competition for the top eight spots that qualify for the Round of 16. Al-Ittihad players understand that a victory against Al-Gharafa would significantly boost their chances and provide a tremendous morale boost as they continue their journey towards the continental title, which has eluded the club for years. The "Tigers" aspire to recapture the glory of their 2004 and 2005 triumphs.
The importance of the tournament with its new system
It is worth noting that the new edition of the AFC Champions League is witnessing unprecedented competition due to the reduced number of teams and the increased technical level, making every point crucial. All eyes are on the King Abdullah Sports City Stadium (The Shining Jewel), which is expected to be packed with passionate fans who always play the role of the 12th man, motivating the players to achieve victories on major Asian nights.
