Thorup ready for positive result against AS FAR

Al Ahly coach Jess Thorup praised the warm reception in Morocco and said his side are fully prepared to face AS FAR after holding their first training session on what he described as “an excellent, well-prepared pitch.”

Thorup told Thursday’s pre-match press conference that Al Ahly had made a strong start to the group stage with their opening-round win over JS Kabylie, adding that the performance was encouraging and that they would look to build on it with a solid display and a positive result against the Moroccan champions on Friday.

“I always aim to improve our performance. Of course we study and respect our opponents, but the goal is to show our best level and continue what we started,” he said.

On the absence of VAR in the competition, Thorup said the technology is “extremely important” and helps ensure fairness in tight situations.

“I don’t know why it is not being used, but we respect the refereeing system. Still, VAR has become essential in matches like these,” he added.

The Danish coach said all players on the squad list are fit and ready as they target all three points.

Thorup concluded by noting that pressure is a normal part of football.

“My real focus is managing the pressure within my team. Big matches always come with pressure, and we work on handling it in a way that helps us win,” he said.