AMMAN — Across the first three rounds of the Pro League, Shabab Al-Ordon sent a clear message that the match ends only with the final whistle. The team successfully engineered late comebacks, displaying strong character and a fighting spirit capable of altering the course of matches even under the most challenging circumstances.
اضافة اعلان
These comebacks were not coincidental, but rather reflected a solid tactical framework developed by Colombian head coach Carlos Alberto Echeverry. Echeverry effectively deployed his squad by clearly defining roles, balancing youth with experience, and utilizing attacking options capable of making a difference in pivotal moments.
Shabab Al-Ordon demonstrated its resilience across three consecutive fixtures, starting against Ramtha, continuing against Al-Jazeera, and reaching its peak against Al-Hussein Irbid.
In the opening match against Ramtha, Dominican forward Saul Castro netted the equalizer in the first minute of stoppage time. In the second round against Al-Jazeera, Castro repeated the feat by snatching an equalizer in the 96th minute, elevating his tally to three goals in three matches and co-leading the top scorers list alongside Al-Jazeera’s Ahmad Al-Harahsheh.
The third match against Al-Hussein Irbid presented a tougher scenario, as Shabab Al-Ordon trailed by three goals. However, the team mounted a gradual comeback: Adham Al-Rifai scored in the 35th minute, Saul Castro added a second in the 65th minute, and Mike Jose converted an 87th-minute penalty to secure a valuable point.
Tactical Balance and Ongoing Preparation
While these repeated comebacks highlight the team's resilience, they also underscore defensive vulnerabilities and game-management issues that need addressing to avoid chasing matches.
Shabab Al-Ordon scored five goals in its first three matches: three by Saul Castro, one by Mike Jose, and one by Adham Al-Rifai. Coach Echeverry has focused on tactical flexibility, speed, high pressing, and exploiting space when opponents retreat.
The current international break offers the technical staff an opportunity to address defensive mistakes, enhance squad harmony, and refine physical and tactical preparation. Shabab Al-Ordon is maintaining training sessions and scheduling friendly matches to preserve match fitness, with an upcoming friendly against Syrian club Al-Shorta serving as an initial test.
The squad features a blend of youth and experience, reinforced by the arrival of veteran defender Salem Al-Ajalin to solidify the backline. On the attack, Saul Castro and Mike Jose continue to provide reliable scoring options.
Resource: Al-Ghad. Reporting: Yahya Qteishat