Al Sadd is happy about the “tough” challenge from Al Hilal and the eye victory

Doha, Qatar: Al Sadd head coach Felix Sanchez said yesterday that the AFC Champions League Elite match against Saudi Arabian heavyweights Al Hilal will be a challenge. The Qatari football giants will be looking to defeat the visitors in their toughest clash in the league to date in the matchday five clash, which will be played at Al Sadd’s home ground at the sold-out Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium.

Sanchez said at a pre-match press conference yesterday that playing in front of home fans will boost his players’ morale as they face Al Hilal’s formidable side.

“We will face Al Hilal, third in the standings, in a difficult game. Playing at home and in front of our fans motivates us to give our best. “We will approach this game with full force,” said Sanchez.

Al Sadd are currently in fourth place in the West Zone standings of the 12-team Asian League with eight points. On the other hand, Al Hilal, the Saudi Pro League champions, currently have 12 points.

Sanchez said high-profile games against teams of Al Hilal’s caliber would help Al Sadd’s growth.

“These are the kind of games we’re looking forward to. The players are excited and ready to perform. “We are aiming for a win in this difficult game,” said Sanchez.

Al Hilal will be without star Ruben Neves while Neymar and Malcom will be doubts, but Sanchez dismissed concerns about their absences.

“Every team has to expect failures. We focus on our strengths and the willingness to deliver excellence,” said the Spaniard.

Al Sadd defender Boualem Khoukhi said the team was optimistic despite Al Hilal’s strengths.

“Al Hilal are an impressive team but we are focused and determined to get the three points. I hope our fans are there to support us,” said the Qatari international.

“We have prepared well and know how important this game is. The recent league win gave us great motivation,” Boualem added, referring to the team’s recent 5-2 win over Al Khor in the QSL.

Al-Hilal coach Jorge Jesus said his team was ready despite a lack of time to prepare for the encounter.

“Our team started preparing for the game immediately after our match in the Saudi League and there was not enough time between games, only two days including travel. “However, we will face Al Sadd in the same way as we are used to are. We trust the players and their abilities and skills and of course we strive to win,” said Jesus.

“We try to benefit from the best conditions available to us. I do not want to repeat that the time available for preparation is not enough, but we are ready,” Jesus added.

The game starts at 7:00 p.m.

The top eight teams in each zone will advance to the round of 16, with the knockout stages beginning in April 2025 in Saudi Arabia.