Worst Half of My Career: Conceição's Fury After Al-Ittihad's 1-0 Loss to Al-Ettifaq
16 January 2026
Post-Match Fallout
The Portuguese coach Sérgio Conceição, manager of Al-Ittihad, voiced strong anger after the shock 1-0 defeat to Al-Ettifaq on Friday night, in matchday 16 of the Saudi Pro League.
What He Said About Spirit, Aggression, and Tactics
With this result, Conceição's men remain on 27 points in sixth place, their second consecutive setback after last round's draw with Damac.
Conceição said in post-match press conference: "I think the first half against Al-Ettifaq was the worst in my coaching career, because we lacked spirit and attacking bite".
He added: "I always demand aggressiveness from the players; it's a core element that directly affects the team's performance and it is a priority for me, as I’ve said before".
He continued: "I'm an attacking-minded coach by nature, and the players must understand this approach... during halftime I explained that even a long tactical lecture won't matter if they don't play with the required spirit".
He attacked his players: "The club's motto is \"The Tiger,\" symbolizing ferocity and strength, and this must be alive for the crowd in every match; without spirit and momentum on the pitch, we can achieve nothing, no matter how tight the tactics".
He wrapped up on transfers: "I don't like dwelling on that side much, but the team needs some signings, and we are not happy with our standing; the player who arrives must know why and what we need from him".
Punchline 1: The Tiger roars louder in the press room than on the pitch, apparently.
Punchline 2: If aggressive vibes were a stat, they’d be leading the league—somebody order a mood booster from the transfer window.
