Baniyas Club held the pre-match press conference ahead of their upcoming fixture against Al Bataeh in the third round of the ADNOC Pro League, with head coach Daniel Isăilă and striker Youssouf Niakaté addressing the media.

Head coach Daniel Isăilă stressed the importance of the upcoming encounter, describing it as a key moment for both teams given their current situations. He said:
“This is a very important match for us and for Al Bataeh. Both teams are going through a difficult phase, which makes this game crucial for both sides. We are ready, we know exactly what is required from us, and we have analyzed our opponent very well.”

He added:
“We are aware of the opponent’s organization and strengths, and it’s essential for us to be more focused and effective in everything we do on the pitch — mentally, physically, and tactically — in order to get the maximum out of this match. I’m very confident in our ability to overcome this difficult period.”

Isăilă continued:
“We hope to be united — management, staff, players, and fans — and that this match will represent the first step towards achieving positive results in the coming period.”

Speaking about team absences, he explained:
“Khalfan Mubarak and Alhassan Koroma remain sidelined due to long-term injuries. João Victor will miss the match due to suspension after accumulating yellow cards, while Ahmed Fawzi picked up an ankle injury during yesterday’s training session and is likely to be unavailable.”

He concluded:
“This match is like a final for us — and perhaps for them as well. We have prepared well, and we have extra motivation because we haven’t won at home yet this season. It’s a challenge we are determined to overcome.”

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Niakaté: We want our first home win of the season
Striker Youssouf Niakhaté highlighted the importance of securing a first home victory this season, emphasizing the players’ readiness for the challenge. He said:
“It’s very important for us to start winning at home and to secure all three points. The match won’t be easy, but we know exactly what we need to do on the pitch.”

He added:
“We are working according to the game plan, and since the match is at our home stadium, we know the fans are expecting a win from us. Our full focus is on this game only.”

Niakaté concluded:
“I hope the fans will come and support us. This is a very important match, and we will give everything we have to achieve the win and collect the three points.”