Ibrahim Ayyash Revives Bahrain’s Hopes

Hussain Almaskati

sports October 21, 2024

TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune - www.newsofbahrain.com

Bahrain's U17 national team secured a vital 1-0 win over the Maldives in their second match of the AFC U17 Asian Cup Qualifiers in China. A standout performance from forward Ibrahim Ayyash secured three critical points for the Bahrainis. The result keeps Bahrain’s hopes alive as they continue their pursuit of qualification for the 2025 AFC U17 Asian Cup.

A Tough Start and a Quick Recovery

The win against the Maldives follows Bahrain’s opening match defeat to China at Dalian Puwan Stadium, where they struggled to handle the hosts’ attacking intensity, losing 2-0. Bahrain head coach Bader Khalil emphasized the importance of bouncing back, stating that the team had prepared extensively during their training camp in China. The win over the Maldives was a testament to that preparation.

Ibrahim Ayyash Steps Up

In a tightly contested match against the Maldives, Ayyash's composed finish made the difference. The forward showed his class when he broke free from his marker and calmly slotted the ball past the Maldivian goalkeeper in the second half. Despite a few nervy moments, they held their nerve against Maldives’ rare counter-attacks.

Ayyash's goal has not only given Bahrain a much-needed win but has also breathed new life into their campaign. Bahrain is now eyeing their upcoming fixtures with renewed optimism, especially with South Korea, one of the tournament favorites, on the horizon.

Coach Khalil’s Confidence in the Squad

Speaking before the match, coach Bader Khalil expressed his confidence in the squad’s potential. “We look forward to achieving positive results. The team’s chances are there, and the competition is open to qualify for the U17 Asian Cup next year in Saudi Arabia,”. The team’s performance against Maldives suggests that they are still very much in contention.

Looking Ahead: South Korea and Bhutan

Bahrain’s next test will be against South Korea, set for Friday, October 25. The Koreans are expected to be one of the toughest opponents in the group. Following that, Bahrain will wrap up their qualifying campaign against Bhutan. Both matches are must-wins if Bahrain hopes to qualify for next year’s tournament in Saudi Arabia.

A Fight for Asian Glory

With 43 teams competing in the qualifiers, only 15 will join hosts Saudi Arabia in the final tournament next year. Bahrain’s Group C campaign has placed them alongside China, South Korea, Bhutan, and the Maldives. The group winners and the five best second-placed teams across the 10 groups will qualify for the AFC U17 Asian Cup.

The path ahead is challenging, but with two matches remaining, Bahrain still has everything to play for on the continental stage.