His Future at Stake: Santos Faces a Decisive Test Against Al Ahly
Portuguese coach Alexander Santos is living under unprecedented pressure at the Royal Army Club, as his future now hinges on the outcome of the tough match against Egypt's Al Ahly. All indications suggest that any further setback could push him to resign or lead the management to officially end his tenure.
The military team began preparations for this crucial summit this morning, after the players enjoyed a day of rest following their return from Tanzania, where the army suffered its first defeat in the group stage against Young Africans. That loss intensified the fans' anger and raised the pressure on the coaching staff to its highest levels.
Santos is counting on Friday's match as a lifeline and their last chance to set things right and restore confidence, especially after the major controversy sparked by the referee's decision to disallow the equalizing goal in the previous game, a decision that led to widespread protests within the club.
For its part, the Royal Army management does not hide its concern about the current situation, as any result other than a win will complicate the team's task in the qualification race and put the coach in a very difficult position in front of fans demanding a strong response against a formidable opponent like Al Ahly.
The anticipated match will take place on Friday, November 28, at the Moulay Hassan Stadium in Rabat, with expectations of a large crowd to support the team at a crucial moment that could shape the course of their continental season.
The Royal Army enters the match with their sights set on all three points, not only to revive their hopes in Group B, which includes Al Ahly, JS Kabylie, and Young Africans, but also to maintain their prestige and avoid an early exit from the continental competition in a stage that many consider a true test of the team's character.
The military team began preparations for this crucial summit this morning, after the players enjoyed a day of rest following their return from Tanzania, where the army suffered its first defeat in the group stage against Young Africans. That loss intensified the fans' anger and raised the pressure on the coaching staff to its highest levels.
Santos is counting on Friday's match as a lifeline and their last chance to set things right and restore confidence, especially after the major controversy sparked by the referee's decision to disallow the equalizing goal in the previous game, a decision that led to widespread protests within the club.
For its part, the Royal Army management does not hide its concern about the current situation, as any result other than a win will complicate the team's task in the qualification race and put the coach in a very difficult position in front of fans demanding a strong response against a formidable opponent like Al Ahly.
The anticipated match will take place on Friday, November 28, at the Moulay Hassan Stadium in Rabat, with expectations of a large crowd to support the team at a crucial moment that could shape the course of their continental season.
The Royal Army enters the match with their sights set on all three points, not only to revive their hopes in Group B, which includes Al Ahly, JS Kabylie, and Young Africans, but also to maintain their prestige and avoid an early exit from the continental competition in a stage that many consider a true test of the team's character.