Sosa, Al-Ahly's Youth Coach: 'Determined Unit' to Compete for League Title

Paulo Sousa Sees Silver Lining in Al Ahli Youth's Goalless Draw Against Al Wahda

Portuguese coach Paulo Sousa remains optimistic about his Al Ahli Youth team's development despite settling for a 0-0 draw against Al Wahda at Al Nahyan Stadium in the second round of the ADNOC Pro League. The tactician emphasized the technical gains his squad achieved while acknowledging Al Wahda's strengthened position as a genuine title contender this season.

Tactical Flexibility Shows Promise Despite Red Card Setback

Speaking to local media, Sousa highlighted his satisfaction with his players' tactical adaptability during the match. The coach praised a key strategic adjustment where his attacking line dropped deeper, creating better defensive and offensive transitions.

"I'm happy with what the players delivered," Sousa explained. "One thing I particularly loved was the tactical decision we implemented during the match, when we stepped back with the attacking line. The players' interpretation of this change was excellent."

The tactical shift proved effective until Al Ahli Youth was reduced to ten men following Renan Victor's red card, which disrupted the team's momentum in the crucial final stages.

Strategic Substitutions and New Signings Show Early Promise

Sousa's second-half adjustments, particularly the introduction of Moanes Dabour in attacking midfield during the closing minutes, demonstrated the squad's evolving tactical depth. The coach specifically praised Serbian newcomer Nemanja Maksimovic's debut performance, describing it as "excellent" and predicting he will be a "strong addition to the team this season."

Building Toward Long-Term Balance

Rather than viewing the draw as dropped points, Sousa framed it as part of a broader development process. "The team is moving in the right direction toward achieving the required balance," he noted, suggesting that Al Ahli Youth's season strategy prioritizes sustainable improvement over immediate results.

Al Wahda Emerges as Serious Title Threat

Beyond his own team's performance, Sousa acknowledged Al Wahda's transformation into a formidable competitor. The coach credited their "strong character" during the match and their strategic recruitment efforts, positioning them as legitimate championship contenders in what promises to be a competitive ADNOC Pro League season.

This assessment carries weight given the UAE league's recent investments in infrastructure and player development, mirroring successful models in other Gulf states where tactical sophistication has elevated domestic competition standards.