Bahrain National Football Team Kicks Off Training Camp
The Bahrain national football team began their training camp as preparations intensified for their upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches against Saudi Arabia and China. These fixtures, scheduled for June 5 and June 10, are vital in Bahrain's pursuit of their first-ever World Cup appearance.
Focused on Recovery and Fitness
The initial session prioritized player recovery and fitness restoration, featuring stretching routines and light exercises designed to ease the squad back into full training mode following their recent club commitments. Sixteen players participated in this opening session, with anticipation high for the arrival of additional teammates from Al Khaldiya Club and professionals currently completing duties in Kuwait.
Among those already training is Olympic squad player Sayed Mahmoud Al Moussawi, who adds youthful energy and versatility to the group.
Squad and Stakes
Coach Dragan Talajić has named a 25-man squad with seasoned veterans with promising talent. Notable names include goalkeeper Ebrahim Lutfallah, midfielders Mehdi AlHumaidan and AlSayyed Mahdi Baqer, and Vincent Emmanuel, whose firepower upfront is expected to be crucial.
With the qualifiers intensifying, Bahrain currently sits fifth in Group C, trailing Japan and Australia who hold the top two automatic World Cup qualification spots. Only the top two teams secure direct qualification, while third and fourth enter playoff rounds, meaning Bahrain must capitalize on their upcoming home clash against Saudi Arabia to keep their dream alive.
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