Al Jazira boss Henk ten Cate has vowed his fearless players possess the courage to win tonight’s AFC Champions League-return match against tormentors Tractor Sazi.
The Iranians dished out a devastating 4-0 defeat during last Wednesday’s Group C-opener.
When asked whether his side would be intimidated after their harrowing experience at Sahand Stadium, the ex-Barcelona and Chelsea assistant was unequivocal in his response after the resurgence enjoyed since his December appointment.
“Absolutely not,” Ten Cate replied. “The players know what they are capable of.
“Especially with the self esteem we have put into team and the confidence the players have in each other. We managed to do a good job.
“If you look at the local competition (Arabian Gulf League), when I started we were one of bottom sides facing relegation.
“In the last five games here (the UAE) we have been unbeaten. It is an amazing thing for a team who were struggling against relegation.
“My experience with the team is for two months and they have been very good. Especially the mental side of the team is stronger than everybody would believe.”
Opponents the Red Wolves finished second in the Persian Gulf Pro League last term, but currently sit a distant seventh in the table.
Their coach Amir Ghalenoei was taking nothing for granted at Mohammed bin Zayed Stadium and equated Jazira’s situation to Brazil’s after their humiliation during the 2014 World Cup.
He said: “We have forgotten the last match. If you remember, Brazil lost 7-1 to Germany at the World Cup – it is not fair to say Brazil are a small team because of this.
“I believe this match tomorrow will be very, very difficult. Jazira will want to compensate for the result.”