Bahrain head coach Dragan Talajic is gearing up to face his predecessor Juan Pizzi, now leading Kuwait, in the Khaleeji Zain 26 semi-final. The match is set to take place at the Jaber Al-Ahmad International Stadium with a crowd of 60,000 expected to attend. Talajic praised Pizzi as an “excellent coach” and acknowledged his knowledge of the Bahrain squad. Despite their recent loss to Yemen, Talajic expressed confidence in his team’s readiness for the semi-final.
Bahrain, winners of the Gulf Cup in 2019, have reached the semi-finals in three consecutive editions. Talajic admitted responsibility for the loss to Yemen and sees it as motivation for his team to bounce back. He chose to keep his tactical plans under wraps, expressing faith in his players’ ability to deliver a strong performance. The game between Bahrain and Kuwait is not about the coaches but about the two teams, according to Talajic.
Kuwait, under Pizzi’s leadership, has shown steady improvement throughout the tournament. The team will be buoyed by home support as they aim for an 11th Gulf Cup title. Talajic, however, remains confident in his players’ ability to rise to the occasion and deliver a memorable performance. The much-anticipated match is expected to be competitive and exciting, with both teams vying for a spot in the final.
Before Bahrain and Kuwait take the stage, Saudi Arabia will face Oman in the first semi-final at the Jaber Al-Mubarak International Stadium. The match is set to kick off at 5:30 p.m. Fans can expect an evening filled with intense football action as the four teams battle it out for a spot in the final. The semi-finals promise to be thrilling encounters that will showcase the talent and determination of the participating teams.
Talajic’s Bahrain squad will be looking to redeem themselves after their recent loss and prove their capabilities on the field. The coach’s confidence in his players and their ability to bounce back from setbacks will be crucial in their semi-final clash against Kuwait. With both teams eager to secure a spot in the final, the match is expected to be closely fought and full of excitement for fans in attendance and watching at home. The Khaleeji Zain 26 semi-final promises to be a thrilling spectacle of football talent and determination.