Al Sadd all set to seal title
Doha, Qatar: Al Sadd need just a draw against Al Ahli on Thursday to win the QNB Stars League title, a record-extending 14 triumph for the Wolves, but it will not be an easy task.
Sadd’s only defeat in the league campaign came at the hands of Ahli back in October, a 1-4 thrashing which came immediately after the Champions League heart break against Persepolis.
Luckily for Sadd, they recouped fast and has have not looked back after that.
An 11-match winning run ended only last week with a 2-2 draw against Al Duhail SC, although Sadd were lucky to escape with a point after the holders conceded an added-time own goal.
Jesualdo Ferreira would be keen to avoid that kind of unwanted pressure.
“It’s an important match and the players are ready to win it,” said the veteran coach. Al Ahli beat us in the first phase and I assure that it will not happen again. I am confident in the players and their ability to beat Ahli and win the title.”
The Portuguese called upon fans to come in numbers and support Sadd.
On behalf of the players and the management, I would like to invite our fans to rally behind our team in the game tomorrow, which is a crucial match to win the title. We will do our best to make our fans happy.”
Midfielder Salem Al Hajri said Sadd now have a chance to win the title in front of their own fans.
“We hope to win the league title in our stadium and celebrate with our fans,” said Al Hajri.
This will be a fantastic achievement especially for the young players in the club who has not won the league title before. We are waiting for that moment. We are aware of the strength of our opponents and we will do our best.”
Ahli coach Ruben de la Barrera said they would be looking to repeat their first leg performance.
“I certainly hope to repeat the surprise when we beat Al Sadd in the first leg,” said De la Barrera.
“We will not focus on Al Sadd. Instead, we will focus on our team and our preparations for a strong match. We will not be easy opponents. We will do our best.
“Our players’ morale is high following our victory over Al Arabi in the last round. We have to take advantage of it. Even though Al Sadd will be looking only to win, we have our chances and we will try to put up a creditable performance.”
