Marino Pusic praises Al-Ahli after comeback win over Al Hazem

Dutch manager Marino Pusic praised his Al-Ahli players after they recovered from an early setback to beat Al Hazem 3-1 in the Roshn Saudi League.

Al Hazem took the lead after just 87 seconds at Alinma Stadium in Jeddah on Friday, but Al-Ahli turned the match around by scoring three times before half-time.

Speaking at his post-match news conference, in comments reported by Saudi newspaper Asharq Al-Awsat, Pusic said: “We started the match shocked by the first goal, but I am pleased with our goals and the way we controlled the game once we equalised.”

Al-Ahli responded strongly after falling behind, taking control of the contest and completing a comeback that secured their fourth victory of the season.

“I would like to thank the players,” Pusic added. “We created many chances in the second half, and I believe my team deserves credit for what it produced today. We showed a great comeback and high quality in footballing terms.”

The result moved Al-Ahli on to 12 points from seven matches, with four wins and three defeats. They are fifth in the Roshn Saudi League table.

Al-Ahli remain five points behind city rivals Al-Ittihad, who are temporarily top of the standings.