Hosts Saudi Arabia are “obliged to achieve victory” in front of a partisan crowd when the Gulf Cup reaches its conclusion in Wednesday’s final against Qatar, according to coach Juan Ramon Lopez Caro.
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The Green Falcons entered the tournament with overall victory the only acceptable outcome set by a fevered and demanding support in this football-obsessed country.
Lopez Caro has carried this weight during the past two weeks, Sunday’s thrilling 3-2 triumph against holders the UAE setting up the decider with fellow regional heavyweights Qatar at King Fahd International Stadium (kick-off: 20:45, UAE time).
Secure a fourth Gulf Cup title and he will be a hero, while defeat does not bear thinking about versus opponents who secured a 1-1 Group A draw on opening night.
“We will be obliged to achieve victory because the meeting is held on our land and in front of our audience,” Lopez Caro said.
“I think that the meeting will be decided by small details, and I hope success is our ally to bring joy to the Saudi public.
“Final matches must be dealt with in a special way – they are very different. A very important aspect of such games is psychology, as well as matters of tactics, techniques and mentality.”
Lopez Caro seemed taken aback by the cheers that greeted his entrance to yesterday’s pre-match press conference, the warm welcome a stark contrast to the inquisitions in every other media event.
The Spaniard has been further questioned by his decision to only select players for his 23-man squad from five sides: Al Nassr, Al Hilal, Al Ahli (Jeddah), Al Shabab (Riyadh) and Al Ittihad.
These represent the main powerhouses in the Saudi Professional League, regularly competing for silverware.
Goalkeeper Waleed Abdullah has demanded that his team-mates “forget the colours of our clubs” for the good of the national team.