Coach Mashaan: Pressure Creates Diamonds

Redemption awaits Riffa in KHK Cup final against Muharraq

Tomorrow’s 2025-2026 HH Khalid bin Hamad Cup final will see Riffa face league champions Muharraq in the second edition of the tournament. Both sides addressed the local media yesterday at the Bahrain Football Association Headquarters, providing insight into their preparations and expectations ahead of the match.

Muharraq were first to face the press, with Portuguese head coach Fernando Manuel de Jesus Santos joined by midfielder Mohammed Hardan. Speaking to The Daily Tribune, Santos reflected on their dramatic 4-3 semi-final win over Sitra, during which the Red Wolves played much of the match with 10 men. “It was not easier playing with ten. The team defended well and created chances, but sometimes you miss opportunities and do not win. That game motivated us for future matches, but this is different, it is a final. Small details will decide the winner,” he said. Santos also confirmed that Amine Bennadi will be absent due to injury, requiring adjustments to the squad.

Hardan highlighted the team’s approach and mindset ahead of the final. “It is important to stay focused and professional. We respect Riffa and know it will be a competitive match, but we are prepared,” he said.

Riffa held their press conference later in the day, with head coach Mohammed Mashaan and midfielder Ali Haram addressing the media. Mashaan framed the final as an opportunity for the team to complete a mission of redemption after last season’s heartbreak against Al Khaldiya. “Every game carries pressure, it is part of life. Even league matches feel like finals because a single slip can change standings. Our response to last year’s defeat is simple: win this one,” he said.

Riffa will be without fullback Hussain Al Eker due to injury, but Haram stressed that the match is finely balanced. “It is 50-50. The team that stays most focused and disciplined will have the advantage,” he said.

The path to the final has added extra significance for Riffa. They secured a 2-0 semi-final victory over Al Khaldiya, the team that denied them the inaugural cup last season. Goals from Samuel Toscas and Sayed Hashim Isa not only sealed their place in the final, but also gave the squad a psychological boost as they pursue redemption. Meanwhile, Muharraq’s 4-3 semi-final win, despite being down to ten men, underlined their resilience and attacking quality.

Tomorrow’s final carries more than silverware. Victory will provide momentum and confidence in the Nasser Bin Hamad Premier League title race, while the losing side will need to regroup for the remainder of the season.