Newly-appointed coach Cesare Prandelli has uplifted the spirits at Al Nasr. 'The Blues' thrashed new team Ajman 3-0 in the first-round match of the Arabian Gulf Cup at the Zabeel Stadium on Saturday.

It was slow start to the proceedings in a match with three goals being scored. The trio of Jassem Yaqoub, Wanderley Santos and new recruit Marcelo Cirino da Silva, on loan, was a treat to watch. Yaqoub and Santos, with their one-two, gave lots of problems for Ajman keeper Ali Mohamed Ali to counter.

A persistent attack finally bore result as Yaqoub, on a counter-attack, scored through a neat pass from Santos. It was a selfless act by the Brazilian, which left the Emirati with an easy finish into the empty goal. The calm finish and understanding between Al Nasr strikers bodes well for Prandelli and the Dubai team. With the strike, Al Nasr ended the first half with a one-goal advantage.

After the break, Ajman went hunting in search of the equaliser. The pursuit for goal by Ajman had a reverse effect as Al Nasr netted one more.

Santos made it 2-0 in the 52nd minute with a gem of a curling shot. The Brazilian converted on a pass from Abdelaziz Baradda to finish with his left foot past goalkeeper Ali.

And if Ajman were looking for any revival, Al Nasr's new Brazilian leg Cirino shut the door on them with a superb volley. Cirino belted a half-volley connecting on a fine cross from skipper Tariq Ahmed from the right flank.

The victory ensures the Dubai team head into second round as Group A table toppers. Hatta, Al Ain, Al Jazira, Al Dhafra all have a point each and Ajman are yet to open the account. - ashwani@khaleejtimes.com

Source: Khaleej Times