Al Sadd coach Jesualdo Ferreira said that while it will be difficult to predict the winner in the Saturday’s game against defending champions Al Duhail, his team deserves to win the QNB Stars League this season.
Ferreira was talking at a pre-match press conference along with player Gabi Fernandez at the Tawar Mall yesterday.
“We are very satisfied. We have no pressure and we will work to win. I do not expect anyone to predict the result of this game, which could decide the title with two matches remaining,” Ferreira said.
“We played most of our games under pressure and we are ahead of Al Duhail by four points. Even if we lose, we will continue to lead the table. We have players at the highest level and I think it is time we won the league and Al Sadd deserve it this season.
“We have three games left in the league and we have to focus on all small details in such big games. I have great confidence in the players. I want them to build on that confidence, enjoy the game and make the fans happy.”
Fernandez added, “I want to finish off the task on Saturday. I cannot wait for the last two games. I have played a lot of important games and, for me, and it is a great honour in my first season to win the league title with Al Sadd. I love such games and it will be a privilege for me and my team to win the title. We had started our work at the beginning of the season and we deserve to win the title. It is important for all members of the team.
“We, at Al Sadd, deal with this game very smartly, especially since we are facing a team with distinguished players. My message to the fans is that this game is of the highest level, reaching the European level, and we all (players and fans alike) have to take responsibility on Saturday to win the league.”
Understandably, Duhail coach Rui Faria is aiming for a win to stay in the title hunt.
The Portuguese coach said, “Our preparations have been just like how we prepare for each match. We know how important this encounter is and the strength of the Al Sadd team. They are the leaders of QNB Stars League and are putting up outstanding performances.”
He added: “There’s going to be only one result and we are going to chase victory. We have had a good season generally. If the numbers allow you to still chase the title, it is possible. We like to keep the memories of good scenes. The season is far from finish.
“We want to reduce the gap in points in our bid to retain the title. While Al Sadd want to decide the championship with this match, we are preparing our players to show the level required of them and achieve the desired result, and we hope to get the three points and achieve victory.
“I have been working with my team since last January, I know what our players can do. I know their abilities and I trust them very much.”
Faria was asked about the two prolific strikers in the game — Duhail’s Yousef El Arabi and Al Sadd’s Baghdad Bounedjah.
“I don’t think they have similarity. Both have had their good days. They are in the best teams, very competitive and like to score goals,” Faria said.
“Every idea or initiative that helps bring the fans to stadiums is very good and it is important for Qatar football to have them at the venues. We have to encourage them to come to the stadiums rather than sitting in front of the television. Players need their support at the stands.
“We know the importance of this game for our team and also Al Sadd who are trying to regain the league title. Certainly, my team doesn’t want them to be crowned at our stadium. Al Sadd’s victory against us in the first leg will give us the motivation to win this time. Thus, we can take the title race until the last round.
“We have to do everything we can to prevent Al Sadd from winning. All games between us have been strong and unpredictable.”
El Arabi said, “In every game, we need to bring out our best. Saturday’s is a big game. Players of both teams know that you have to score in the first opportunity. I like this game. It may be the best in this season’s league. I am very happy with the level presented by Bounedjah with Al Sadd and his scoring abilities. He is a very good player. I am happy for him and I am happy for myself.”
Al Sadd coach Jesualdo Ferreira (right) and player Gabi Fernandez address a press conference ahead of their Saturday’s match against Al Duhail yesterday. PICTURE: Othman Khalid
