Al Sadd players attend a training session ahead of Al Rayyan game.
Al Sadd and Al Rayyan will meet in the second leg of Qatar Clasico with a victory for either side at Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium today may prove crucial in its QNB Stars League (QSL) campaign.
Al Sadd are returning to action after their thumping 5-1 victory over Al Shahania in the Amir Cup semi-final and a similar performance against the Lions will keep their hopes alive for the third consecutive title triumph.
With three games remaining, Al Sadd sit third in the standings with 38 points, seven points behind leaders Al Duhail and five behind Al Arabi.
Coach Juan Manuel Lillo said his team will focus only on winning the remaining three games in the league.
“We always want to win every match and the next challenge is against Al Rayyan,” the Al Sadd coach told a press conference.
“Al Rayyan are strong competitors with their unique qualities and strong players. It will be a difficult match, but we are determined to try to win this game as always,” Lillo added.
Al Rayyan players prepare for Qatar Clasico.
A positive result in the Qatar Clasico today will help Nicholas Cordova-coached Al Rayyan to improve their ranking on the points table and keep a distance from the relegation zone.
They are on ninth position with 17 points, edging Al Shamal – placed 10th in the standings – on goal difference.
“Facing Al Sadd is a strong and difficult challenge, especially after the opponents’ outstanding performance in recent matches and Al Rayyan’s level as well.
For us, we will fight in this match to win points and get out of the team’s current situation,” said Cordova.
“Qatar Clasico matches always have special features, regardless of the preparations of the two teams, as they are of a great enthusiasm, but the team must be 100 percent ready, and we look forward to appearing at a good level,” he added.
Al Sadd edged out Al Rayyan 2-1 when the two teams met in the first leg.
At Thani Bin Jassim Stadium, Al Gharafa and Qatar SC will face off in other important game today with both the sides eyeing a top four finish.
Al Gharafa, who have 32 points, would consolidate their fourth spot if they beat Qatar SC, who are sixth with 29 points. Al Wakrah (30 points), who will play Al Arabi tomorrow, are the other contenders for a fourth place finish.
Al Gharafa will come back to action having defeated Al Duhail in their previous match while Qatar SC also claimed win in their last game, beating Al Rayyan 1-0 in a postponed game.
Earlier today, the venue will also host Al Shamal and Al Markhiya game.
Al Markhiya, who are currently on seventh place with 21 points, defeated Al Shamal 2-1 in their Week 9 match played on April 19 after a delay.
