Portuguese-Iranian threat to Al-Ahly

MEF - ABHA, SAUDI ARABIA, July 31: Portuguese outfits Maritimo and Iranian league runners-up Esteghlal will be amongst the closest challengers of Al-Ahly, when the 6th edition of the Abha Invitational Tournament kick-start on Thursday in the summer resort city in south-west of the kingdom.

The tournament’s first round comprises two groups of 5 sides each, at the end of which both top 2 sides move to the
semi-finals stage.

Esteghlal of Iran and Syria national team will prove a handy test for the competition hosts Al-Ahly of Jeddah, now under the guide of Belgian Dimitry Davidovic, who are paired in Group One featuring also Oman Olympic side and Assir selection.

Maritimo of Portugal, coached by Eduardo Vengada, and Saudi Arabia Youth Under-20 national side look favourites to claim
a berth to the last-four stage from Group Two, Bahrain Olympic side, Al-Hilal FC of Yemen and Al-Riyadh SC filling the remaining other three spots in this group.

Al-Ahly of Jeddah are the reigning champions of the tournament after winning the coveted prize last season against tough opposition sides in the shape of Atletico Mineiro of Brazil, Chinese outfits Dalian and Raja Casablanca of Morocco. Raja were defeated 2-1 in the final showdown by the ultimate winners.