AFC Champions League Elite
The former continental champions cruised to a 4-0 win against Cristiano Ronaldo's Al Nassr with Ivic saying the win showed what his side can do.
#ACLElite | Al Ain FC (UAE) 4-0 Al Nassr Club (KSA)
"It was very important to start the competition with a win against one of the teams expected to win this competition.
"We know what we can do and the guys did their job really well till the end and they deserve the victory," said Ivic.
Al Ain dominated from start to finish with Houssine Rahimi netting a brace and his brother Soufiane and Giorgos Giakoumakis grabbing one each to cap a magnificent performance.
"We sent a message to ourselves on what we can do and this is most important to me. We have worked hard together for more than one year and we have new guys who joined us this summer and the target is to improve and be better game by game.
"This is something which is not easy but we want to be ready for our next game and next competition."
Al Nassr head coach Ange Postecoglou took full responsibility for the defeat.
"I do not hold the players accountable for the result. We are currently dealing with a congested match schedule, which is a major factor and impacting our performance," said the Australian tactician.
"The criticism directed at the team and the coaching staff following this result is justified. The coach bears the responsibility when the outcome is like this. However, we must get to work and review our errors ahead of upcoming fixtures.
"The players gave their all, and I do not hold them responsible."
Related News
- AFC Champions League Elite
MD1: Al Hilal SFC (KSA) 2-1 Al Gharafa SC (QAT)
- AFC Champions League Elite
MD1: Al Ain FC (UAE) 4-0 Al Nassr Club (KSA)
- AFC Champions League Elite
MD1: Johor Darul Ta’zim (MAS) 1-1 Buriram United (THA)
- AFC Champions League Elite
MD1: Beijing FC (CHN) 3-1 FC Pohang Steelers (KOR)
- AFC Champions League Elite
MD1: Kashima Antlers FC (JPN) 7-1 Newcastle Jets FC (AUS)
Item 1 of 5