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Bani Yas v Al Wahda Pre-Match Press Conferences

Bani Yas head coach Josef Chovanec has quietly lead his side to second place in the Etisalat Pro League, and the Czech manager is keen to go one better as they chase down leaders Al Ain. “There is not a big points difference between us and Al Ain and there are still many games left before the end of the season. Nobody can predict the outcome of the remaining matches,” he said at his pre-match press conference ahead of welcoming Al Wahda to the Bani Yas Stadium on Friday. Chovanec continued, “We have prepared well and we hope to put in a strong showing against Al Wahda.” The Bani Yas boss has a number of potential absences to contend with, and cursed the injuries suffered by Mohamed Aboutrika, as well as Christian Wilhelmsson and Mohammed Jaber, who may miss out on the game. However, Chovanec is happy to be able to welcome back Mohammed Fawzi and Sultan Al Ghaferi following suspension in the last round.

In the Al Wahda dugout, Branko Ivankovic anticipates a tough game against a well-organised and spirited Bani Yas side, who he pointed out have not found themselves in second place by accident. Ivankovic highlighted the opposing side’s mixture of youth and experience, and high profile players such as Aboutrika and Wilhelmsson, offering them particular strength in the squad. The Croatian coach says his Al Wahda side is aiming for a top-four finish, and noted that if they achieve a victory over Bani Yas on Friday it will open up a nine-point lead at the top of the League for Al Ain, so it is sure to be a fiercely contested match.