Al Nasr eager to turn a new leaf under Croatian coach Ponatchic

Gulfnews – Al Nasr face a crucial task when they meet Al Wahda today at Al Nahyan Stadium in Abu Dhabi in the Etisalat First Division Football League.

Al Nasr, struggling at the foot of the table with just six points, have to fight under new Croatian coach Luca Ponatchic to earn three points.

"I know Al Wahda from the two matches we played against them in the Asian Champions League semifinals when I was the coach of Sepahan. We beat them 3-1 in Iran and drew goalless in Abu Dhabi," said Ponatchic, whose 18-month contract with Al Nasr runs until June 2009.

Commendable record

The new Al Nasr coach had worked for four years in Iran. He had led Sepahan to victory in the Iranian league and also reached the final of the 2007 Asian Champions League, where they lost to Japanese club Uraoa Reds.

"I have a good experience of Gulf soccer, owing to the four years I spent in Iran. I do not promise to win any titles in the current season. I will first start to know my team and my players. Our main objective will be to work hard and lift the team from the bottom of the table to a better position."

The Al Nasr coach cited lack of confidence on the part of the players as the main reason for the team's recent slump in form.

"The players lost confidence in themselves due to continuous defeats in recent weeks. I think they will regain their confidence once they win a game," Ponatchic said.

Ponatchic said the coming season will be a real challenge for Al Nasr.

"I'm optimistic that Al Nasr will overcome their current position and jump to a safe position on the standings. The co-operation I have got from the board and the players' strong resolve to do better makes me hopeful," Ponatchic said.

Al Wahda, led by Esmail Mattar, are also passing through tough times. They are in the 10th place with 7 points, just one ahead of Al Nasr. They will be looking to clinch the three points today and lift themselves from wilderness.

In the second match today, Al Jazira host Al Ain at Mohammad Bin Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi.

Fixtures

Al Wahda v Al Nasr (kickoff at 5.10pm)
Al Jazira v Al Ain (kickoff at 7.25pm)