2019 fifa club world cup

It’s a deserved victory, says Al Hilal coach Lucescu

Doha, Qatar: Al Hilal coach Razvan Lucescu said his team were deriving winners after they entered the semifinals of the FIFA Club World Cup Qatar 2019 with a 1-0 victory against Tunisian side Esperance Sportive de Tunis at Al Stadium on Saturday.

Bafetimbi Gomis scored the winner in the 73rd minute after coming on as a substitute and  Lucescusaid his side controlled the game.

"It's a deserved result," said the Romanian coach.

"We controlled the match and created more opportunities. The first half, after 10-15 minutes was in our control. It was a much more balanced game in the second period but we had good possibilities to take advantage of the space."

Hilal started without Gomis who was recuperating after an injury while Sebastian Giovinco was also on the substitute's bench and Lucescu said his side did well despite two of their best players not starting.

"Gomis had an injury in the AFC Champions League final and was not 100 per cent after having a surgery. Sebastian Giovinco also had and injury.

"But Gomis came and he did that. He is one of our best players, fantastic guy, huge motivation and one of the best-loved players in the team."

The former El Jaish coach said he was not bothered about facing Flamengo who are a tough side.

"It's going to be a tough game. But all the games are going to be tough. We have the power to fight and  we are here to do our best."

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