Al Sadd players during a training session on the eve of the final. PICS: Mohamed Farag
Al Sadd and Al Arabi have their sights on the prestigious Amir Cup title as they meet in a highly-anticipated final at Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium, today.
Despite a fine run in the season, both the sides are still without trophy as Al Duhail sealed the treble winning the Ooredoo Cup, Qatar Cup and the QNB Stars League (QSL).
In their last chance to grab the first silverware of the season, both the teams are expected to produce thrilling action at the 45000-capacity venue which is set to be packed after all tickets for the game were sold out.
The two teams are squaring off four days after their final QSL game with Al Arabi gaining a psychological advantage with a 2-1 win to finish the top flight as runners-up. Al Sadd ended up third in the league.
Al Arabi players in action during a training session last evening.
Al Sadd, who are seeking a record-extending 19th Amir Cup title, will enter the game well prepared, according to coach Juan Manuel Lillo.
“We had a long preparation for the final. It’s an important match for us and we have great responsibility as our goal is to win the Amir Cup title,” Lillo told a press conference yesterday.
“My first game of the season was against Al Arabi and we are going to play the last match against them as well. Both the teams know each other well. We should take control of the match by taking ball possession. It becomes easy to attack and minimise the chance of conceding a goal,” he added.
Al Sadd captain Hassan Al Haydos was expecting a tough fight from Al Arabi in the final.
Al Sadd coach Juan Manuel Lillo
“We have a good opportunity to secure the prestigious title but we face a formidable challenge in Al Arabi. Our players are well-equipped to handle the pressure of such a crucial match, and we will approach the game with a positive mindset,” said Al Haydos.
“Al Sadd fans have high expectations, and it is our unwavering aim to win the championship. Our focus remains steadfast on the match, and we eagerly anticipate fans presence and unwavering support for the team,” he added.
Al Arabi have won the Amir Cup eight times but they have not won the tournament since their triumph in the 1992-93 season.
Coach Younes Ali was confident of a good show from the Dream Team.
Al Arabi coach Younes Ali
“The team is determined to give their best and win the coveted trophy. It is a great honour for any team to take trophy from His Highness the Amir,” the Al Arabi coach said yesterday.
“It will be a difficult match but our morale is high and we are ready. We are looking forward to give a winning performance and end the season with the triumph. We are going through a good phase and I am hopeful the team will give its best,” he added.
Al Arabi striker Omar Al Somah said: “We will have to work very hard to beat Al Sadd. It will require a great effort from all of us to win the Amir Cup. There will be no room for complacency at any stage of the final. Everyone of us is aware of the big responsibility and we are fully prepared. We want to win the title and make our fans happy.”
The match will kick off at 7pm with organisers requesting fans to reach the venue early.
