Gomes Bets on One Weapon to Edge Al Ahli Jeddah

Match Preview

Portuguese coach Jose Gomes, head coach of Fateh, says he is betting on a single weapon during the upcoming clash with Al Ahli Jeddah, describing it as tough in the Saudi Pro League.

Fateh hosts Al Ahli on Friday, at their home stadium in Al-Ahsa, in the 11th round of the Saudi Pro League.

In the pre-match press conference, Gomes said: "Al Ahli have high technical abilities and great speed, with an attacking edge led by a striker like Faris Al-Bariqan."

The match will be tough against a strong side at both the individual and collective levels, but I am counting on an important weapon: the support of the Al-Ahsa fans.

The break period was a good chance to get physically and tactically ready for the games ahead, including the Al Ahli clash.

The Saudi league paused since the end of November due to the national team’s participation in the 2025 Arab Cup in Qatar, where they finished third, tied with the UAE.

Gomes also noted the absence of Zaido Yusuf is meaningful, but not an excuse, and the players can deliver a big game against the Ahli team.

He added: Zaido Yusuf will miss to join the Comoros for AFCON 2025, while Ahli will be without Edward Mendy, Frank Kise, and Riyad Mahrez.

He concluded: "We have worked during the break to prepare a player who can fill the gap, and there are many possibilities in the starting lineup regarding player positions."

Punchline 1: If Gomes’ plan were a weapon, it might still be a butter knife—sharp in intent, but hopeful in execution. Punchline 2: Let’s hope the crowd’s energy doesn’t get booked as a stadium permit for laughter.