Al Duhail striker Almoez Ali is a player on whom coach Djamel Belmadi relies heavily to deliver. And he has lived up to expectations in many games. Noted for his swift movements, passes, speed and goal-scoring ability, Almoez has also been a key player for the Qatar national team.
Talking ahead of tomorrow’s Qatar Cup final against Al Sadd, Almoez talks about a wide variety of topics.
Excerpts:

How do you see the final against Al Sadd?
 The match between Al Duhail and Al Sadd will be full of excitement as always. We hope to perform very well and win the Qatar Cup this season.

Can Al Duhail add Qatar Cup to the QNB Stars League title?
 Yes, indeed. We’ve the ability and motivation to win all titles this season. We can overcome Al Sadd. We’re always thinking about keeping the record clean especially since we won the league shield without a single defeat.

Are you worried about Al Sadd’s determination to come back after losing the league title?
 We aren’t afraid of Al Sadd. We do respect all opponents and we’re focused only on winning.

Which Al Sadd player worries you the most?
 No specific player. We must look at Al Sadd as a team and do our best to restrict the movements of their key players.

Do you consider it as a tactical game or a clash of individual brilliance?
 It’s a mix of both. Such big games are also noted for the tactical battles between the coaches. Their astute strategies will enhance the players’ skills and performance.

How did you manage to register a big victory over Al Gharafa in the semi-final?
 Remember, the match was very tough in the first half and we improved our game in the second. We’re very thrilled to have reached the final.

Did you expect a big-margin win?
 No, I didn’t. But we had the potential to do it.

Do you feel cup games are different from league fixtures?
 Yes, indeed. Mainly because they’re knockout ones, where you either win or lose.

How has been your AFC Champions League campaign so far?
 It’s going well and steady. We won the league title and qualified for the AFC Champions League’s Round of 16. All eyes are on the Qatar Cup at the moment.

How do you look forward to your Round of 16 games against Al Ain?
 They’ll be totally different from the league or Qatar Cup games. We’re representing Qatar football. We’ve to pull off a positive result in the away match in order to make things easier for us in the second leg.

How do you evaluate your performance with the team this season?
 I believe I’ve put up good displays. There’s no doubt that I’m looking for more and to help teammates more in the remaining games this season.

Do you expect to win the award for the best young player for the second successive season?
Of course. That’s my goal. It’s also the ambition of all young players. There’re many strong contenders, but I wish to win it.
(QSL)