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Over-Respect Gone Wrong: Damac Boss Addresses Al-Nassr Defeat

21 January 2026

Over-Respect Gone Wrong: Damac Boss Addresses Al-Nassr Defeat
Damac head coach Armando Evangelista reacts after a 2-1 loss to Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League

Coach Evangelista: Damac Over-Respect for Al-Nassr

Portuguese coach Armando Evangelista, Damac's manager, said his side respected Al-Nassr too much during the Saudi Pro League clash and could have left with a better result.

Damac lost 2-1 to Al-Nassr on Wednesday at Prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz Sports City in Round 17.

In the post-match press conference, Evangelista spoke of regret, noting they did not play as planned and may have overestimated the opponent.

He added that despite that the team showed resolve and quality at times and produced good moments during the match, according to a Saudi outlet.

In the first half, they created chances and reached the rival's goal, but lacked the decisive finish.

The coach said the opening period lacked the necessary intensity, while the second half was better and forced the opponent to retreat.

There was an opportunity for a result, but luck wasn't on their side; Evangelista is proud of his players and the work to build a competitive squad.

There are positives to take and progress to build on in coming games.

The coming games ahead will test the team's growth.

Punchline: If humility were a stat, Damac would top the league. If respect were a tactic, they'd be champions of that too.

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Emma Amme

I am Emma Amme, an English sports journalist born in 1998. Passionate about astronomy, contemporary dance, and handcrafted woodworking, I share my sensitive view of sports.

Frequently Asked Questions

What did Evangelista say about the match?

He said Damac overestimated Al-Nassr and could have left with a better result.

What was the result and where did it take place?

Damac lost 2-1 at Prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz Sports City in Round 17 of the Saudi Pro League.

What did he say about the second half?

He noted improvements in the second half and that the team forced the opponent to retreat, though it wasn’t enough.