Frenchman Christophe Galtier, coach of NEOM, expressed his happiness with his team’s victory over Al-Khaleej by three goals to none, stressing the importance of the result in restoring balance after two consecutive losses in the Saudi Professional League.
Galtier said in the press conference after the match: “I am happy with this result, especially since it came after two consecutive losses. The team showed a good mentality and succeeded in keeping a clean sheet, which is a positive thing for us.”
The French coach pointed out that NEOM achieved victory despite the absences it suffered from on the offensive side, explaining that the young players showed remarkable development and succeeded in investing in the opportunity given to them.
He added: “We have a number of absences on the offensive level, but the young players began to improve and provided what helped the team achieve this victory.”
Regarding his technical options, Galtier confirmed Muhannad Abu Taha’s readiness to participate, noting his ability to play in more than one position. He said: “Muhannad is completely ready, and is distinguished by his proficiency in playing in several positions, while Islam Hawsawi presents good levels, and therefore he gets the opportunity to participate.”
NEOM's coach denied the validity of the news circulating about Al-Ahly entering into negotiations to contract with Amadou Kone, confirming that the player will continue to be part of his team, and said: “What is rumored about Al-Ahly’s negotiations with Amadou Kone is not true, and the player is continuing with us.”
NEOM scored three goals within 8 minutes of the first half to win 3-0 over Al-Khaleej in the Saudi Professional Football League, Thursday, while Al-Khuloud avoided loss and tied 2-2 with Al-Fayhaa near the end.
NEOM raised its score to nine points from five matches, behind on goal difference for fourth place. Gulf's score froze at three points in 14th place.
Alexandre Lacazette gave NEOM the lead with a low shot from inside the penalty area in the 37th minute, before Muhannad Al Saad increased the score two minutes later.
Al-Saad launched a counterattack from the middle of the field and shot into the tight corner.
Amadou Kone concluded the home team's hat-trick with a header after a corner kick near the break.
Des Buckingham, coach of Al-Khuloud team, expressed his satisfaction with his team’s performance during the last minutes of the match against Al-Fayhaa, which ended in a 2-2 draw, pointing out the importance of the point away from home.
Buckingham said, in the press conference after the match: “We performed well during the last 25 minutes of the match, and we came away with an important point, especially since it was outside our stadium.”
He added: “My goal and the team’s goal is to develop young players, whether Saudis or foreigners, and what is most important for us is to create players for the future.”
Regarding the altercation that occurred between the players of the two teams, after the final whistle, the “Eternity” coach explained: “I do not know the reason for the altercation that occurred between the players of the two teams after the end of the match.”
