Ben Zekri's statements: A conversation with Ronaldo and a message to Al Shabab fans
Introduction: A heroic performance by Al-Shabab against Al-Ittihad in the Roshan League
Amidst the fierce competition in the Saudi Professional League, which has garnered global attention thanks to attracting some of the world's top football stars, Al-Shabab's head coach, the veteran Algerian Noureddine Benzekri, affirmed that his team delivered a tactically and physically outstanding performance. This came during the press conference following the thrilling match between Al-Shabab and Al-Ittihad. Benzekri particularly praised the high fighting spirit displayed by his players on the pitch, emphasizing that this spirit is the true weapon for any team striving for victory in a league currently ranked among the strongest in the region and the Asian continent.
Behind the scenes of the exciting conversation between Benzekri and Cristiano Ronaldo
In a fascinating interview, the Al-Shabab coach revealed details of a previous conversation he had with Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo, captain of Al-Nassr. Ben Zekri explained that Ronaldo had directly asked him why Al-Shabab's performance and ferocity differed when facing Al-Nassr compared to other top teams. The Algerian coach's response was decisive and confident: "Ronaldo asked me why I don't play all my matches like I do against Al-Nassr, and I told him quite clearly: 'Watch my matches against Al-Hilal and Al-Qadisiyah.'" This statement reflects the intense rivalry in high-profile matches and highlights the international and local interest in the details of the Saudi League competitions, where statements from coaches and players now make headlines in international sports newspapers.
Overcoming crises and maintaining sportsmanship among coaches
Ben Zakri indicated that the Al-Shabab players entered the match against Al-Ittihad fully prepared, both mentally and physically, explaining that their primary objective was to break free from the cycle of negative results that had plagued the "White Lions" in recent rounds. He emphasized that these setbacks in no way reflected the team's true technical level or the exceptional talent within its ranks. He added, "I thank the players for their fighting spirit during the match. Today, they were determined to deliver a great performance and showcase the true character of Al-Shabab on the pitch." He also mentioned the conversation he had with the Al-Ittihad coach after the match, explaining that the latter spoke to him in Italian before later apologizing. Ben Zakri preferred not to elaborate on the details of the conversation out of respect for their professional relationship.
The unifying factor and a crucial message to unite the youth supporters
Ben Zekri didn't neglect to mention the element of "luck," which plays a crucial role in the world of football. He cited the recent Riyadh derby between Al-Nassr and Al-Hilal, pointing out that everyone was preparing to celebrate clinching the league title before it was postponed due to a goal scored with a handball. This, he said, confirms that football is full of surprises and small details that can change the course of championships. At the end of his press conference, the coach delivered a message that was both emotional and rational to the Al-Shabab fans and the club's management. He called for unity around the team and urged everyone to put aside all historical or administrative differences, emphasizing that the club's best interests lie in unity. He concluded by saying, "It's not in Al-Shabab's best interest for there to be opposition from former administrators to current ones, or vice versa. The most important thing now is for the prestigious Al-Shabab club to return to its rightful place among the elite of Saudi football, as it has always been, and this will only be achieved through everyone working together.".
