Ufuk Talay has provided an update on the fitness of Douglas Costa after the Brazilian was removed on the hour mark against Sanfrecce Hiroshima on Wednesday night.
The number 11 was creating plenty for the Sky Blues and almost assisted the visitors for their opener at the end of the first half but having been removed, the Head Coach revealed that it was precautionary with a look to Sunday afternoon.
“We took Douglas off because he was feeling his hamstring a little bit.
“We have a game on Sunday that we have to win in Auckland,” Talay added.
“While precautionary it was also tactical too because we were chasing the game and needed some fresh legs out there.”
Sydney FC more than held their own against the best team in Japan and were really unlucky not to get something from the match.
Both teams will meet in a fortnight’s time in Sydney in a match that will surely decide the group table.
“I’m disappointed that we lost that match but very proud of the performance that the boys put in across the park.
“I thought it was a good display of football and a good display of the brand of football that we can play but overall disappointed the boys didn’t get something from that game,” he added.
“In a fortnight they will be doing the same travel and kilometres that we did and we have a good opportunity playing at our home.
“Hopefully we can win that game and hopefully go on to finish top of the group.”
Sydney FC are now on their way to Auckland for Sunday’s Isuzu UTE A-League clash with Auckland FC.
Match Details
Auckland FC v Sydney FC
Isuzu UTE A-League Round 2
Sunday 27th October 2024
Go Media Stadium, Auckland, New Zealand
Kick Off: 2:00pm AEDT (4:00pm Local)
Broadcast Live: Paramount+
