AFC Champions League Elite - Ivic hails Al Ain’s versatility

Jeddah: Al Ain FC head coach Vladimir Ivic praised his side’s versatility after they defeated Al Ittihad Club 4-1 on Monday to maintain their perfect start to the AFC Champions League Elite 2026/27™.

Al Ain remained firmly in control throughout the contest to seal their fourth win on the trot with Ivic praising his side’s ability to adapt to Al Ittihad’s tactical approach.

#ACLElite | Al Ittihad Club (KSA) 1-4 Al Ain FC (UAE)

“Al Ittihad applied pressure and played well in the first 10 to 15 minutes,” said Ivić. “They are a fantastic team but I was surprised by their decision to play with three defenders but we are accustomed to facing opponents who use different tactical approaches."

“Every team has its strengths and weaknesses, but Al Ittihad’s goalkeeper (Predrag Rajkovic) performed well and managed to save several of our attacks.”

Al Ittihad head coach Jens Wessing expressed disappointment with the result.

“We knew it would be a challenging match against an experienced side that has achieved significant results,” said Wessing. “We prepared accordingly, we started both the first and second halves well; however, we failed to capitalise on our advantage after scoring a goal."

“We were up against a clever team with strong individual quality. We weren’t at our best - mentally, physically, or technically. Fatigue took its toll, and we couldn’t keep up with them in terms of fitness.

“I told the players that if we want to compete, we must improve. It’s a painful reality, but we need to hold our heads high and face the truth.”

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