Bahrain finalizes squad ahead of crucial World Cup qualifiers

TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune - www.newsofbahrain.com

Email: hussainm@newsofbahrain.com

Bahrain’s national football team will have a full-strength squad by tomorrow, as key players return to training ahead of two vital World Cup qualifiers against Indonesia and Saudi Arabia.

Among the returning faces are the players from Al-Khaldiya Club, as well as midfield dynamo Mohammed Marhoon, who currently plies his trade for Kuwait SC. The squad’s finalization couldn’t come at a better time for Bahrain, who are looking to bounce back after a crushing 5-0 defeat to Japan in their previous fixture.

The upcoming matches are critical in Bahrain’s campaign to qualify for their first-ever World Cup, with a lot riding on the performances of these returning players. Marhoon, in particular, will be pivotal to Bahrain’s hopes. His leadership in midfield has been missed, and his ability to dictate the tempo will be crucial against an Indonesian side looking to claim their first win in the qualifiers.

The midfielder, who has also contributed a goal and two assists in his last eight appearances, adds both creativity and experience to the squad. Bahrain coach Hélio Sousa will be hoping the return of his full squad will reignite the team’s belief and rhythm, as they look to recover from their recent setbacks. With a home game against Indonesia up first, followed by a tough test away to Saudi Arabia, the stakes have never been higher.

Bahrain knows that securing positive results in these next two matches is essential to keeping their World Cup dream dream.