Doha, Qatar: Al Rayyan will look to maintain their winning start in the AFC Champions League (ACL) Two when they take on Saudi Arabia’s Al Taawoun at Wolves Park in Buraidah today, with kick-off scheduled for 7:00pm.
The Group C leaders opened their campaign with a thrilling 4-3 victory over Jordan’s Al Faisaly, while Al Taawoun conceded late to settle for a 1-1 draw away to Oman’s Al Nahda.
Al Rayyan coach Vicente Moreno expects a tough challenge despite Al Taawoun’s difficult start to the season, saying the Saudi side have quality players and an excellent coach.
“We certainly have great respect for Al Taawoun; we know they are a good team. It is true they didn’t start the season well, but the match will be difficult, and I have full confidence in my team,” Moreno said at a press conference yesterday.
The Spaniard, who faced Al Taawoun during his time at Al Shabab, said his team would be ready for different tactical approaches after the Saudi club changed coaches.
“We will be ready with solutions for the match. I certainly hope we play better tomorrow, and we will see how Al Taawoun plays,” he added.
Moreno confirmed all players were available as Al Rayyan prepare for a busy month, with the coach targeting success across competitions.
“Our ambition is to win it, God willing,” he said of the continental tournament.
Al Rayyan player Ahmed Al-Menhali also underlined the importance of securing the points.
“Facing Al-Taawoun is tough; we aim to secure the points,” he said, adding that the team hoped to deliver a strong performance and claim victory.
In the other Group C match today, Al Faisaly host Al Nahda at Amman International Stadium, with kick-off at 9:15pm.
