Perplexed boss Cosmin Olaroiu “expected” Al Ahli’s impending pursuit of continental glory to have seen Arabian Gulf League-organisers postpone the visit of Sharjah.

The Red Knights are gearing up for Tuesday’s second leg of their historic AFC Champions League semi-final meeting with Al Hilal, which follows a 1-1 draw in Riyadh. Their preparations have been interrupted by Thursday’s top-flight commitments, a distraction the Romanian could do without.

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He said: “The less said about this match [against Sharjah] the better.

“I would have expected them [Pro League Committee] to postpone this match. There is nothing we can do but just go and play.”

The game was originally meant to be played on Saturday, Ahli successfully arguing this would be too close to the Rashid Stadium-decider.

They now face a Sharjah side who have rebounded from a difficult start, drawing 1-1 with AGL leaders Al Nasr and beating Dibba Al Fujairah 4-1 in the Arabian Gulf Cup.

“We are in our best form after two good results,” said coach Paulo Bonamigo. “We are facing a strong team, so we have to do our best.”