Damac coach: Our draw with Al-Qadisiyah was positive, and we need the support of Saudi players
Damac FC's Portuguese manager, Armando Evangelista, expressed his relative satisfaction with the result of his team's match against Al-Qadisiyah, which ended in a 1-1 draw at Prince Mohammed bin Fahd Stadium in Dammam, as part of the eleventh round of the Saudi Professional League. Evangelista described the match as a very difficult test against an opponent with high technical capabilities.
Technical analysis: Between defensive discipline and offensive boldness
In his analysis of the match, the Portuguese coach emphasized that his team presented a positive image despite the existing technical differences, noting that securing a draw at Al-Qadisiyah's home ground was a good result under the current circumstances. Evangelista stated in the post-match press conference: "We faced a well-organized and strong team, and we needed more boldness and aggression in attack to threaten their goal more effectively. However, the strength of the opponent and their constant pressure forced our players to focus intensely on defensive organization.".
Damac's coach praised the perfect defensive performance of his players, which was crucial in maintaining the result and avoiding defeat, stressing that the balance between defense and attack is the key to success in big matches.
The context of the competition and the challenges of the Roshan League
Evangelista's comments come at a time when the Saudi Professional League is witnessing unprecedented qualitative development, with competition no longer limited to the top four clubs. Al-Qadisiyah, recently promoted to the Professional League and bolstered by strong signings and a massive investment strategy, is considered one of the toughest opponents this season, adding further value to the point Damac secured in Dammam. This draw reflects Damac's ability to compete with high-caliber teams thanks to their tactical discipline.
The transfer window and a future vision for Saudi football
Regarding the team's future, Evangelista emphasized that Damac remains in contention, focusing his attention on the upcoming winter transfer window. The coach explained the team's urgent need to strengthen its ranks with new players who can enhance cohesion and raise the group's technical quality, ensuring they maintain their high level of performance in the second half of the season.
The coach did not overlook the national and strategic importance of sports in the Kingdom, clearly emphasizing the need to invest in Saudi players. Evangelista linked club signings to Saudi Arabia's upcoming international commitments, most notably preparations for the World Cup. He affirmed that local players possess the quality and talent to perform at a world-class level if given the right support and opportunity, expressing his hope to sign more outstanding Saudi players during the upcoming transfer window to bolster the national team's strength in international competitions.
