Conceicao Reveals the Gap: Saudi Pro League vs Asia’s Elite, and a 4-1 Statement
17 February 2026
Portuguese manager Sergio Conceicao, head coach of Al-Ittihad, explains the difference between the Saudi Pro League and Asia’s Elite competition after a convincing 4-1 win over Al-Sadd.
Al-Ittihad defeated Al-Sadd 4-1 on Tuesday at Jassim bin Hamad Stadium in the final group-stage match of the Elite Asian Champions League, finishing fourth in Group West and advancing to the knockout rounds.
Speaking at the post-match press conference, cited by Asharq Al-Awsat, he said: "It was an important and deserved victory, especially because we implemented our plan fully."
"These are three crucial points; now we focus on what comes next and continue on the same path," he added.
He noted: "Today the scoreline was big, but we faced a very difficult opponent — quality players and a world-class coach. We were lucky to win this way."
"There is a difference between league games and the Elite, but it’s not huge; players here are not at the top level, yet opponents enjoy more rest," he said.
"We represent Al-Ittihad and its motto; our focus is always on winning, whether here or in the league." The win keeps the team’s hopes alive in Asia’s Elite and they aim for the knockout stage.
Al-Ittihad secured a place in the Round of 16 of the Elite Asia Champions League after finishing fourth in Group West, set to meet UAE’s Al Wahda.
Key takeaways
Punchline 1: If tactical precision were a sniper rifle, Conceicao fired and the net replied—target locked, goal scored.
Punchline 2: In football, as in life, when you hit the mark this clean, even the chalk becomes a fan. Sniper-level planning, folks.
