Sitra look to bounce back in Gulf Club campaign

Head coach Isa Al Saadoun said his side are determined to translate that progress into three points. “We’re looking to make up for the earlier results and get our first win in the tournament,” Al Saadoun said during yesterday’s pre-match press conference. “We have great respect for Al Qadsia, but we’re well prepared for this match. Staying focused and disciplined will be the key to a positive result.”

Al Saadoun’s words reflected the growing belief within the squad after their improved defensive showing against Zakho. The goalless draw showed greater composure and structure compared to their opening match in Abu Dhabi, where three late goals from Al Ain turned a close contest into a heavy defeat.

Speaking along side his coach, midfielder Abdulwasea Almatari echoed the determination in the camp. “This match means a lot to us, and we’ll fight to get that first victory that keeps us in the running,” Almatari said. “We know how important this game is for our fans, and we’ll do everything we can to make them proud.”

That sense of resolve will be crucial against an Al Qadsia side also searching for their first points of the campaign. The Kuwaitis have lost both their opening fixtures, 3-1 to Zakho and 1-0 to Al Ain, and now arrive in Bahrain under similar pressure to respond.

Sitra remain Bahrain’s sole representatives in this year’s Gulf Club Champions League. Their qualification followed an impressive third-place finish in the 2024-25 Nasser bin Hamad Bahrain Premier Football League, earning them the chance to compete among the Gulf’s elite.