RIYADH, 14 December 2005 — Suspended Al-Ittihad striker Osama Al-Muwallad received a royal pardon from King Abdullah. Al-Muwallad was suspended for one year by Prince Sultan ibn Fahd, president of the Saudi Youth Welfare Presidency, for kicking a TV cameraman during an Arab Champions League match against Al-Wedad of Morocco.
Ahli Eye Bosnian
JEDDAH, 14 December 2005 — Negotiations are in talks with Bosnia’s Jamal Hajji for the post of Al-Ahli football team coach, a source at the club said. Yousef Anbar, whom the club hired as temporary coach, has been asked to coach the team till the Bosnian arrives.
Shabab Sign Rogerio
JEDDAH, 14 December 2005 — Al-Shabab acquired Brazilian international Rogerio from Al-Ahli club for two years. The deal worth SR400,000 was signed here recently. Ahli is in negotiation with Moroccan international Jawad, who is currently playing in French League, to replace Rogerio.
Chico Confident
JAPAN, 14 December 2005 — Al-Ittihad is capable of beating Sao Paulo of Brazil in their semifinal match in the World Club Championships today, said a confident Ittihad midfielder Chico. “Ittihad have all elements, and the team will enter final,” he said, adding, “It will not be an easy match; Sao Paulo are a strong side, but our combined strength will make it possible to win,” he said. Chico, shown faith in his teammates, said this is a chance for us to create history.
Japanese Media Hail Ittihad
JEDDAH, 14 December 2005 — Reacting to Al-Ittihad’s victory over Al Ahly of Egypt in the first match, Japanese newspapers were all praise of the win. “Skillful Ittihad showed the world the bright side of Asian football,” a newspaper headline said. Another paper, writing after the victory, in its headline said “We hope to see Ittihad in the final.”
