The absence imposes an option on Al Ahly coach Matthias Jaisul ahead of the side’s encounter with Al Wahda at the Emirates in the seventh round of the elite AFC Champions League, prompting him to reorganize the technical paper and replace the absent names with players who are young and ready.
Rayan Hamed replaces Demiral
Yaysaleh decided to rely on Rayan Hamed to compensate for the absence of Turkish defender Melih Demiral, who was not technically or physically ready, but Saleh Abu Al Shamat has been selected for the right wing position for the match against Emirates side Al Wahda, scheduled for today (Monday) at 4:45 pm at Al Nahyan Stadium in Abu Dhabi.
Galeno absent due to injury
Al Ahly were also without Brazilian winger Galeno Henderson, who was absent from the main training session due to a minor injury and was unable to accompany the national team as they arrived in Abu Dhabi in preparation for the match.
call reserve striker
Considering the lack of numbers, the technical staff brought in Brazilian striker Ricardo Matias, who joined the reserve team as a new addition during the winter transfer window, to strengthen Al Wahda’s attacking options.
Preparations at Al Nahyan Stadium
Al Ahly held their last training session yesterday (Sunday) at Al Nahyan Stadium, where the match will be held, with a final tactical focus to make up for the absences and ensure a good result.
Muscle damage and Asian records
Demiral suffered a muscle injury in the 17th round of the league against Al Khaleej, which caused him to miss the games against NEOM, Al Itifak, Al Hilal and Al Hazm. The Turkish defender has played in three Asian games this season, while Galeno has played in three games, scoring one goal and assisting two goals.
Early qualification and advanced status
Al Ahly have secured their qualification to the next round since the last match, and are in 3rd place in the group with 13 points with 4 wins, 1 draw, and 1 loss, and have a comfortable margin ahead of today’s match.
