Xavi expects tough game against Al Wakrah

Doha, Qatar: Reigning champions Al Sadd are looking to start the second phase of the Qatar Stars League with an impressive win as they look to launch themselves into the title challenge, but coach Xavi Hernandez said their rivals Al Wakrah would pose a tough challenge.

Speaking at the press conference ahead of the game, Xavi said: “We will have a difficult game against Al Wakrah. We know we will face a very strong team. They have an excellent coach who knows his players very well, but we are fully prepared to get the win.”

He added: “I do not know whether (Cristian) Ceballos will return to play with Al-Wakrah or not, but (regardless) the rest of the players are of the highest calibre. On paper, we are the favourites. We are coming on the back of a big win over Al Gharafa in our best game of the season. But our performance on the pitch (tomorrow) is what will help us get a positive result.”

And on the readiness of his players for the match, the Al Sadd coach said: “All the players are ready for tomorrow’s game. Only the three Olympic team players are missing. Training has gone well and everyone is in working hard to get a spot in the starting eleven. I will work on choosing the best suitable lineup.”

Sadd are fourth in the standings with 18 points from nine games, 11 behind leaders Al Duhail who have played 11 games.