JEDDAH: Saudi Arabia’s head coach Roberto Mancini on Monday stressed the importance of being mentally prepared as his team look to bounce back from their defeat against Japan.
Speaking at a pre-match press conference at King Abdullah Sports City, Mancini highlighted the need for psychological readiness ahead of the Green Falcons’ World Cup qualifier against Bahrain in Jeddah on Tuesday.
Mancini, who was joined by goalkeeper Ahmed Al-Kassar, acknowledged the difficulty of the upcoming match, saying: “I think it’s the same thing as I said before — all games are difficult.
“Tomorrow’s game is crucial and tough. Bahrain looked physically strong against Indonesia and I hope we deliver a positive display, as we did against Japan despite the loss.”
The Italian coach stressed that his team are fully focused and mentally strong.
He added: “We are mentally prepared. We are seeking to compensate for the loss to Japan. Psychological support is very important, and we are grateful to Prince Abdulaziz Al-Faisal, minister of sports, and Yasser Al-Misehal, president of the Saudi Football Federation, for their constant motivation.”
Mancini called on the fans to play their part, adding: “Their presence is very important and a great support for the team.”
Echoing his coach’s sentiments, Al-Kassar spoke of the team’s determination to make up for the disappointment of the Japan defeat.
He said: “All the players were frustrated when fans left during the Japan match, and we were not satisfied with the result.
“Everyone expects a lot from us and we must make the fans happy. We will strive to do so against Bahrain and secure a victory.”
Bahrain’s head coach Dragan Talajic, a familiar figure in Saudi football having won the 2004 AFC Champions League with Al-Ittihad, shared his excitement about returning to the city.
He said: “I am so glad to be back in Jeddah. I have great memories with Al-Ittihad that I will never forget.”
He anticipates a competitive match, and added: “The plan tomorrow is to play great football; I’m sure the Saudis are thinking the same.
“It’s going to be a good game between two great teams, and we’re looking forward to winning.”
Al-Shabab’s Musab Al-Juwair missed a training session, led by Mancini, due to pain in his thigh.
The Green Falcons sit third in Group C in the Asian qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup in North America.
