Al Sadd midfielder Guilherme Torres during a training session.
Doha: Al Sadd’s head coach Felix Sanchez said his team is ready to face Al Ahli Saudi FC in a high-profile AFC Champions League Elite encounter which will raise their chances of getting a strong seeding in the knockout stage draw.
Despite both teams having already booked their spots in the Round 16, sparks are bound to fly in today’s clash at the Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium, with the kick-off set for 7:00pm.
The two unbeaten teams, along with Saudi sides Al Hilal, Al Nasr and UAE’s Al Wasl have already advanced from the West Zone.
Al Ahli Saudi FC currently share the top spot with Al Hilal, both tied at 16 points, while Al Sadd sit four points behind in fourth place.
“We are returning to Asian competition after our last match in November. With two group-stage games remaining, it is beneficial to play them having already secured qualification. However, we will be facing a strong opponent who has also advanced, featuring several high-caliber players,” Sanchez said during the pre-match press conference yesterday.
Al Sadd, the 2011 AFC Champions League winners, will be eager to capitalise on their home advantage today, especially after delivering outstanding performances to reach the knockout stage ending a three-year hiatus.
“The match against Al Ahli Saudi FC is crucial for us. We will give our maximum effort to secure a positive result,” Sanchez said.
Al Ahli have also been enjoying exceptional form, securing their Round of 16 berth with three matches to spare following five wins in a row.
“The recent transfer window allowed all clubs to strengthen their squads, and we are aware of the additions Al Ahli Saudi FC has made. However, our priority remains on our team. We recognise the strength of our opponents, but we have confidence in our team’s quality and spirit,” Sanchez said when asked about Al Ahli’s recent signings.
“So far, we have delivered strong performances in the tournament, and we aim to maintain this level of competition until the end,” a confident Sanchez said.
Al Sadd midfielder Guilherme Torres echoed his coach’s sentiments.
“This will be a tough and significant game for us, especially as we are playing at home. We will do everything in our power to secure victory and claim the three points,” Guilherme said.
“Al Ahli Saudi FC has top-quality players, but so do we. We have faith in our team, and we are determined to win,” the Brazilian said.
Al Rayyan meet Al Ain
Meanwhile, Qatar’s Al Rayyan will take on UAE’s Al Ain as both teams battle to keep their AFC Champions League Elite campaign alive.
At the Hazza Bin Zayed Stadium today, Al Rayyan will aim for full points against the defending champions who have endured a disappointing run this time.
With two matches remaining, the Qatari side, sitting in seventh spot with five points, remain in contention for a Round of 16 spot and two wins would guarantee their progression.
