Our national team coach Saad Al Shehri said in a press conference before meeting with Yemen at the opening of Al Akhdar’s Gulf 25 journey: “We are happy to be in Basra on our first visit and wish Iraq success in the organization. The first match is very important against the developing Yemen, let’s go step by step with the group stage, The preparation was not only for the meeting, but for the entire tournament. We prepared well and we have goals to achieve them. He continued, “Our personality will come out as soon as the tournament starts. I have the same ideas with the current team, which brings together the Olympians and the first team. We came with the ambition to win the title, so there is no difference. between an Olympic player or the first team.
Al Shehri stressed that the national coach has a lot of support, Uncle Baba and Waleed Al Rakraki are worthy examples and we are striving for achievements.
As for Yemen’s rival: We respect him very much, Yemeni football has developed well, and they are ready through their camp in Egypt. We played a draw before and the result of the meeting is not to be expected.
And about the atmosphere: it was not a long period, but we are ready and well prepared. I have 23 players who are able to achieve achievement for Saudi football.
Riad Sharahili: We thank Iraq for the hospitality and organization, and I wish everyone success.