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Daily Tribune
20 hours ago
- General
- Daily Tribune
'Habibi, this is Bahrain,' says Talajić
TDT | Manama Bahrain's defining clash vs Saudi Arabia in 2026 qualifiers, tomorrow at 7PM Stād Al Bahrain Al Watanī (Bahrain National Stadium) in Riffa braces for a make-or-break match as Bahrain takes on Saudi Arabia in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Asian qualifiers. After a goalless draw in Jeddah in October, both sides step onto the pitch knowing that three points could shift the trajectory of their campaigns. Do-or-Die Tomorrow's game is Bahrain's final home fixture in the third round of Asian qualifiers, a stage where every result carries monumental weight. With Japan already qualified from Group C and Australia firmly in contention, the fight for third and fourth positions that offer a lifeline to the next round has intensified. Bahrain, currently fifth with six points, faces a Saudi side sitting third with 10. The margins are tight, and the outcome in Riffa could prove decisive. The atmosphere is charged with anticipation. Entry for Bahraini fans in the general stands is free, a gesture from the Bahrain Football Association (BFA) to pack the stadium with vocal support. VIP tickets, priced at BD20, and Category One tickets for Saudi supporters remain available. Preparation has been meticulous for Bahrain, guided by Croatian head coach Dragan Talajić. The squad has honed its tactics over recent weeks, culminating in a final training session last night at the National Stadium. Adding to the momentum, BFA Vice President Shaikh Khalifa bin Ali bin Isa Al Khalifa visited the team on Monday at Shaikh Ali Bin Mohammed Al Khalifa Stadium in Arad, offering encouragement that echoed through the camp. Talajić has instilled a sense of purpose in his players, applying tactical discipline with an understanding of the occasion. The team's resolve was evident in their last outing against Saudi Arabia, where they held strong defensively. Tomorrow, they'll need to be brave going forward and take the game to Hervé Renard's men. Voices from the Camp Talajić's pre-match press conference offered insight into his approach. "Big game is coming up against our big brothers, Saudi Arabia. Very difficult game for both of us, not just us, also them. They have great players, great coach, but habibi, they are coming to Bahrain," he said, acknowledging the quality of the opposition while subtly playing up the home advantage. His confidence was loud and clear: "We are in a situation where everything is in our hands, and I promise we will fight for our Kingdom." The coach reflected on past missteps: "I made some mistakes" but quickly pivoted to ambition. "We are aiming to win all the six points that are left, and I am proud of my players," he added. With Eid approaching, Talajić sees a win as a gift to the fans: "We want to celebrate together. We are Bahraini, we're always winners." Striker Mehdi Abduljabbar echoed this optimism. "We're going into the match with a positive attitude for the win. Our fans are hoping for a positive outcome, and we're going to do everything in our power to make them happy," he said. His belief in the team's potential was clear: "In the world of football, nothing is over." Group C Puzzle Group C has been a relentless challenge and full of twists and turns. Japan lead with an impeccable 20 points, their World Cup spot secured. Australia, with 13 points, are poised to join them. Saudi Arabia (10 points) and Indonesia (9 points) sit above Bahrain and China, both locked at six points but separated by goal difference. Tomorrow's result could reshape the standings, with third and fourth place offering passage to a fourth round group stage. There, group winners qualify directly, while runners-up face a playoff route to the global finals. Bahrain's path is narrow but not impassable. Victory over Saudi Arabia, followed by a result against China in Chongqing next Tuesday, could put them in contention. The numbers tell a story of struggle, but football thrives on moments of defiance. Fans' Role in the Fight The Bahraini faithful will be the heartbeat of tomorrow's effort. Free entry ensures a sea of red and white, a visual and vocal force that Talajić and his players are counting on. Abduljabbar highlighted their impact: "We know our fans will be there backing us from the opening whistle, and it will push us." The team's final home stand in this round carries an emotional weight and a chance to unite a nation in celebration before the Eid holidays. Saudi Arabia, meanwhile, comes in with World Cup pedigree and purpose, and a win would solidify their grip on a qualification spot. But playing in Riffa, against a Bahrain side fuelled by desperation and home support, presents a tough challenge. One Last Push Tomorrow's 7PM kickoff is a testament to Bahrain's footballing spirit. The stakes are clear: a win keeps the World Cup dream flickering; a loss dims it significantly. They will also be keeping a close eye on Indonesia's clash with China at 4:45PM, as the result could have a direct impact on Bahrain's path in Group C. Talajić's men have prepared, the fans are ready, and the stage is set. Bahrain will be hoping to draw confidence from their 3-2 win over Saudi Arabia last December in the Gulf Cup and channel that belief into this qualifier. In a group led by giants like Japan and Australia, this match gives Bahrain a chance to shape their own narrative and keep the dream of a first-ever World Cup qualification alive.
Daily Tribune
4 days ago
- Sport
- Daily Tribune
Red Falcons Ready Focused
TDT | Manama Bahrain's national team sharpens up ahead of crucial World Cup qualifiers against Saudi Arabia and China Bahrain's national football team is intensifying preparations for two vital Asian World Cup qualifying matches, set to take place against Saudi Arabia (June 5) and China (June 10). The Red Falcons gathered for a focused training session on Saturday evening at Al Ahli Club Stadium, fine-tuning their tactics and fitness ahead of the ninth and tenth rounds of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. Leadership Presence, Morale Boost His Highness Shaikh Khalifa bin Ali Al Khalifa, Vice President of the Bahrain Football Association, was on hand to oversee preparations and offer encouragement to both players and staff. His close support highlights the importance Bahrain places on these upcoming fixtures, which are critical steps in the team's journey to the World Cup. Injury Update Mohamed Marhoon rejoined the team following the conclusion of his commitments with Kuwait SC. After sustaining a blow to the cheekbone, Marhoon underwent medical assessments in the morning, which confirmed he was fit to continue with the squad. He participated in a light recovery session during the evening training, signaling a positive step in his return to full match fitness. Tactical Precision Under the watchful eye of Portuguese coach Rui Pinto, the squad ran through a varied training program — from stretching exercises to tactical drills, culminating in live scrimmages designed to replicate match conditions. The training emphasized cohesion, sharpness, and readiness to face some of Asia's toughest opponents. Full Focus in Camp The squad has since entered a closed training camp at the Wyndham Grand Hotel, allowing the team to focus fully on the upcoming challenge. With the match against Saudi Arabia looming, the camp environment aims to build team unity and tactical clarity as Bahrain pushes for a spot in the World Cup.
Daily Tribune
27-05-2025
- Sport
- Daily Tribune
Muharraq Crowned Nasser bin Hamad Premier League Champions
In that match, Ellit Simoes and Soufian Mahrouq both netted braces, while Juninho and Husain Abdulkarim added their names to the scoresheet. The result took Muharraq to 47 points—an unassailable lead in the standings and a fitting demonstration of their dominance throughout the campaign. Shaikh Nasser lauded the high-level performances, discipline, and determination shown by the squad, describing the title as 'a strong motivation for future success' and a reaffirmation of Muharraq's legacy as one of the foundational clubs in Bahraini football. Beyond Muharraq's achievements, Shaikh Nasser applauded the overall level of competition in this season's league, noting the sportsmanship and technical quality across all participating clubs. He extended his thanks to the Bahrain Football Association, led by Shaikh Ali bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, for their excellent organizational work and successful management of the league season. As the curtain falls on another exciting campaign, Muharraq stand tall—champions once again, powered by a deep-rooted winning culture.
Daily Tribune
09-03-2025
- Sport
- Daily Tribune
National team gears up for World Cup Qualifier away matches against Japan and Indonesia
TDT | Manama Bahrain's senior men's football team have begun their build-up for the next phase of the 2026 FIFA World Cup Asian qualifiers, assembling at the Bahrain Football Association's pitches in Riffa's Isa Sports City. Head coach Dragan Talajic is steering the squad through training ahead of two critical away fixtures in Group C: Japan on March 20 at Saitama Stadium 2002, and Indonesia on March 25 at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium. The team departs for Japan this Thursday, with these matches—the seventh and eighth in this round—carrying the weight of Bahrain's dream to reach the finals for the first time. Bahrain's senior men's football team have begun their build-up for the next phase of the 2026 FIFA World Cup Asian qualifiers, assembling at the Bahrain Football Association's pitches in Riffa's Isa Sports City. Head coach Dragan Talajic is steering the squad through training ahead of two critical away fixtures in Group C: Japan on March 20 at Saitama Stadium 2002, and Indonesia on March 25 at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium. Humaidan: Japan a Test, but Points Are the Prize Bahrain linger in fifth in Group C with six points, tied with Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, and China after six games. Japan dominate with 16 points, their only slip a draw, while Australia sit second with seven. Speaking exclusively to The Daily Tribune (TDT), forward Mahdi Humaidan laid bare the stakes. 'We've got four matches left, and every one matters,' he said. 'Japan's one of the continent's strongest sides, no question, but we're going there hoping to grab points.' Humaidan's focus then shifted to Indonesia, a direct rival on equal footing. 'They're right there with us on points—we'll tackle them next, one game at a time.' With the top two securing direct qualification and third or fourth entering a play-off, Bahrain's mixed bag—a 1-0 win over Australia, a 5-0 drubbing by Japan—demands sharper consistency. Talajic Leans on Gulf Cup Backbone The Croatian manager has called up a 26-man squad, built around the core that clinched the 26th Gulf Cup title in January. Strikers Mahdi Abduljabbar and Abdulla Yusuf, each with two goals in the campaign, lead the attack, while Ebrahim Lutfalla remains a rock in goal. Komail Al Aswad's creativity in midfield and Waleed Al Hayyam's reliability at the back are vital, with Abdulla Al Khalasi—whose strike sank Australia—bringing edge. The squad, featuring Mohammed Jassim Marhoon, Ali Madan, and Ahmed Bughammar among others, marks their first competitive reunion since the Gulf Cup, and Talajic is banking on that spark to ignite their qualifying push. A Tight Group and a Bigger Picture The third round pits three groups against each other, feeding into the expanded 2026 tournament across the USA, Canada, and Mexico. Group A sees Iran, Qatar, and Uzbekistan jostle with UAE, Kyrgyzstan, and North Korea, while Group B has South Korea, Iraq, and Jordan facing Oman, Palestine, and Kuwait. Bahrain's Group C is the most congested, and Humaidan knows the upcoming tests—Japan's fluid play and Indonesia's home tenacity—will reveal their mettle. 'Our goal is to win every match,' he told TDT. 'That's the best gift we can give the fans.' Looking ahead to Saudi Arabia at home on June 5 and China away on June 10, he added: 'We're aiming to pile up points for second place, inshAllah. Even if luck turns, third or fourth and a play-off shot would still keep us in the fight.' Talajic, who guided Al-Shorta to Iraq's league title in 2022, has the pedigree to galvanise this side, but the margins remain punishingly slim.
Daily Tribune
05-03-2025
- Sport
- Daily Tribune
Bahrain Unveils Squad for World Cup Qualifiers
TDT | Manama Bahrain's national football team has officially named its squad for the next phase of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, and this group has the makings of something special. The announcement, made ahead of a crucial stretch of matches, carries the weight of a nation's dreams—to finally reach the World Cup finals for the first time in history. The Squad The 26-man roster, shared by the Bahrain Football Association, is a carefully curated mix of experience and youthful energy, a testament to coach Dragan Talajić's vision for this campaign. Leading the goalkeeping unit are Sayed Mohammed Jaffer and the ever-reliable Ebrahim Lutfalla, whose heroics have kept Bahrain in contention time and again. Defenders like Waleed Al-Hayam, Abdulla Al-Khalasi, and Sayed Baqer form a sturdy backline, with Al-Khalasi already proving his worth by scoring the lone goal in Bahrain's 1-0 upset over Australia in September 2024. In midfield, names like Komail Al-Aswad and Mohammed Al-Hardan stand out—Al-Aswad's playmaking, with two assists in the third round, has been a bright spot, while Al-Hardan's tenacity anchors the center. Up top, forwards Mahdi Abduljabbar and Abdulla Yusuf bring the firepower, each with two goals in this round, alongside Ali Madan, whose flair on the wing has troubled defenses across Asia. The full squad reads: Ebrahim Lutfalla Sayed Mohammed Jaffer Ammar Ahmed Hamad Al-Shamsan Abdulla Al-Khalasi Ahmed Bughammar Sayed Baqer Waleed Al-Hayam Ali Madan Komail Al-Aswad Mahdi Al-Humaidan Abdulwahab Al-Malood Mohammed Al-Hardan Mahdi Abduljabbar Ahmed Al-Sherooqi Jasim Al-Shaikh Abdulla Yusuf Ali Haram Mohammed Adel Ebrahim Al-Khattal Husain Madan Mohammed Jameel Sayed Redha Issa Hasan Al-Karrani Abdulaziz Al-Sheikh Abdulla Al-Awadhi A Daunting Group C Challenge Bahrain finds itself in Group C of the third round, a gauntlet that includes Japan, Australia, Saudi Arabia, China PR, and Indonesia. With five matches played, Bahrain sits third with 8 points, having secured a gritty away win over Australia (1-0), thanks to a goal from Al-Khalasi, and hard-fought draws against Indonesia (2-2), with Marhoon scoring a brace, and Saudi Arabia (0-0). But losses to Japan (0-5) and China (2-3) have shown the fine margins they're navigating. Japan leads the group with 13 points, followed by Australia (9) and Bahrain (8), while Saudi Arabia (7), China (4), and Indonesia (4) trail. The top two teams will qualify directly for the 2026 World Cup, with third and fourth advancing to further rounds—a tight race that leaves little room for error. Japan Looms Large The next test is a formidable one: an away clash against group leaders Japan on March 20. Japan has been ruthless, scoring 18 goals in five matches, and Bahrain will need their defense, led by Al-Hayyam, to hold firm. After that, they host Australia on March 25, a chance to repeat their earlier heroics. There's a hunger in this squad, a belief that they can rewrite history. 'We're ready to fight for every point,' Al-Aswad said recently, a sentiment that echoes through this roster. A Nation's Hopes on Their Shoulders Bahrain has never reached the World Cup finals, but with this crop of players—riding the high of a dramatic Gulf Cup win in early January—the dream feels tantalizingly close. The expanded 2026 tournament in the USA, Canada, and Mexico offers more spots for AFC teams, and Bahrain is determined to seize the opportunity. As they prepare for Japan, the nation watches, hoping this squad can finally break through. For locals, this is a story worth following every step of the way.
