Doha, Qatar: Ali Lajami is counting on the support of Saudi Arabian fans to power the Green Falcons in their AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023 Round of 16 tie against South Korea today.
Saudi Arabia boast an impressive record against the Taeguk Warriors in their AFC Asian Cup encounters, remaining undefeated in four previous meetings, and Al Nassr defender Lajami is determined to keep things that way.
“Both teams are very strong and will do their best to win,” said Lajami. “We have several leaders in our team, such as Ali Al Bulayhi, who is a true leader both on and off the field. With players like him, the team is highly motivated to find their place in the last eight of the Asian Cup and I hope we will be able to do justice to the supporters.
“In every game, the presence of our fans has played an incredible role in boosting our morale and I expect them to come and do their job in the next game as well.
“Korea Republic and Saudi Arabia are two evenly matched teams and I am certain it will be a good game. But I truly believe that the deciding factor can come down to the support of the fans.”
While Korea Republic are the immediate concern, Lajami did not hesitate to admit that his eyes are already on the top prize.
“On a personal level, I am very happy with how I have performed in the matches leading up to the knockout stage and I hope to continue that,” he said. “But I have my main target set in this competition, and it is to win the trophy for my team, and being able to do that for my country will be my personal win.” AFC
