JEDDAH – Head Coach Sérgio Conceição and forward Steven Bergwijn spoke to the media ahead of Al-Ittihad’s crucial clash against Al-Wahda (UAE) in the knockout stage of the AFC Champions League Elite. Both delivered a clear message: the team is ready. Conceição acknowledged the challenge ahead, emphasizing that both sides share the same ambition to progress. He confirmed that preparations have been thorough, with a clear objective in mind. “Our ambition is to win the AFC Champions League Elite,” he stated. The coach also addressed key absences, with Saleh Al-Shehri and Mohamedou Doumbia sidelined due to injury, impacting options in midfield. Despite this, he expressed full confidence in the squad’s depth, highlighting the contributions of Moussa Diaby, Houssem Aouar, and Steven Bergwijn. “We want to play as one unit — with intensity, cohesion, and the same spirit we showed against Al-Gharafa.” On the pitch, the message is clear: unity, intensity, and belief. Bergwijn echoed the confidence, pointing to the decisive role of the fans. “The support we receive pushes us to give everything,” he said. Reflecting on the previous meeting against Al-Wahda in the group stage, the Dutch international made it clear that this is a different moment. “Now we play at home, in front of our fans. The objective is clear: we win.” With the stage set and the Dega behind them, Ittihad step into another defining night — chasing continental glory.