‘We Will Do It Again’

Final 26-man Gulf Cup roster to be named tomorrow

TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

Dragan Talajic has urged Bahrain’s younger players to learn from the squad that lifted the Gulf Cup as preparations continue for this month’s title defence in Jeddah.

The Croatian coach addressed the team during a training session at the Bahrain Football Association pitches in Riffa, recalling the celebrations that followed their 2-1 victory over Oman in last year’s final.

“When I saw my players and how they celebrated after the final, I saw passion,” Talajic said.

“This passion is something the kingdom needs. Every one of you, especially the young boys, has to prepare himself for high-level football and experience that same feeling.”

Bahrain came from behind to defeat Oman in Kuwait and secure their second regional title.

Several members of that successful squad are part of Talajic’s preliminary selection, while a number of emerging talents are competing to retain their places.

The coach believes combining the two groups could prove important during Khaleeji 27.

“The mix between you will be something special,” he told them.

Junior striker Ali Mahran is among those hoping to earn a spot after being added to the list following his performances in the AFC U20 Asian Cup qualifiers.

The final 26-man roster will be announced tomorrow before the Reds enter a local camp at the Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel on Friday.

Those representing Muharraq and Al Khaldiya are expected to join after completing their AFC Champions League Two commitments.

The defending champions are then scheduled to travel to Jeddah on Sunday to complete their build-up.

Bahrain open their Group B campaign against Qatar on September 24 before facing the UAE on September 27 and Yemen three days later.

Talajic concluded his message by asking the team whether they could win the trophy again.

“InshaAllah,” they replied.