Thu, 28 Oct, 2021
Al Ramm: Palestine’s preparations for AFC Asian Cup 2015 have been dealt a major blow with news that head coach Jamal Mahmoud has resigned.
The 41-year-old Jordanian, who took charge of Palestine in 2011 and subsequently guided the nation through a period of unparalleled success, left his position on Wednesday citing personal reasons. Assistant coach Saeb Jendeya has been named as Mahmoud’s interim replacement.
News of Mahmoud’s departure comes only days after Palestine finished third at the Peace Cup in the Philippines following a 4-1 defeat to Myanmar and a thrilling 7-3 victory against Chinese Taipei.
Palestine, who were the last team to earn an Asian Cup berth after winning the AFC Challenge Cup 2014 in the Maldives, have four friendlies arranged ahead of their trip to Australia and the Asian Cup.
They will play two matches against India on October 8 and 10, followed by an October 14 clash with Morocco and a meeting with China on December 21.
Palestine will then open their AFC Asian Cup 2015 campaign against defending champions Japan on January 12 at the Newcastle Stadium. They also have 2007 Asian Cup winners Iraq and neighbours Jordan for company in Group D.
Photo: WSG