Alkass English
Al Sadd will look to revive their AFC Champions League Elite campaign when they face Saudi Arabia’s Al Qadsiah on Monday, with the Qatari side seeking their first points after two consecutive defeats.
The 2011 champions need a victory to strengthen their hopes of reaching the round of 16. They will also aim to end a six-match winless run against Saudi opposition, during which they have recorded five defeats and one draw, conceding 17 goals.
Speaking ahead of the match, Al Sadd coach Razvan Lucescu acknowledged Al Qadsiah’s quality but backed his players to rise to the challenge.
The Romanian urged his side to show fighting spirit, deliver their best performance and demonstrate the character needed to secure victory.
Lucescu also highlighted the competition’s importance as an opportunity for players to develop and prove themselves. With a demanding schedule ahead, he stressed the need for the entire squad to remain ready, including those stepping in for injured teammates.
Defender Tarek Salman echoed his coach’s determination, calling for full concentration against an improving Al Qadsiah side.
Salman said Al Sadd were focused on producing a strong performance, claiming their first three points and getting their continental campaign back on track.
Al Qadsiah, meanwhile, will aim to extend their unbeaten start and capitalise on home advantage. Avoiding defeat would make them only the third Saudi club to remain unbeaten in their first three matches in the competition, although victory will be their priority.
Al Gharafa Prepare for Al Ahli Test
Al Gharafa also face a demanding assignment on Monday against defending champions Al Ahli, with coach Pedro Martinez urging his players to build on their performances against Al Hilal and Esteghlal.
Martinez expects a fiercely contested encounter against the Saudi side, who have won the past two editions of the continental competition.
While acknowledging the holders’ quality, he insisted Al Gharafa would approach the match with confidence and a determination to secure the points.
The coach said his team had performed well in their opening two matches but had been unable to turn those displays into victories, stressing that small details could again prove decisive.
Forward Yacine Brahimi also underlined Al Gharafa’s determination to deliver a positive result for their supporters. He acknowledged the strength of the opposition but maintained that his own side possessed players capable of making the difference.
Al Ahli are unbeaten in their last six continental meetings with Al Gharafa, recording three wins and three draws after losing their first two encounters. They have also scored in seven of the clubs’ eight meetings.
However, the holders will seek greater defensive solidity after conceding in both of their opening matches, including a late draw against Uzbekistan’s Pakhtakor.