Alkass Digital
Al Sadd coach Wesam Rizik termed the upcoming Amir Cup 2024 semi-final against Al Duhail as a formidable clash. The match will be played on Saturday at 7pm at the Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium.
Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Rizik said, “It’s a tough match for both teams, essentially an early final. It’s a significant challenge against Al Duhail, and success will depend on our attention to detail. We are well-prepared and committed to giving our best to secure a spot in the final, a prestigious achievement in the presence of His Highness the Amir.”
He continued, “We have the ambition to reach the final and clinch the cup, to keep alongside our league title. The players of Al Sadd possess resilient characters, and we want to maintain the momentum after winning the league title and participating in the Qatar Cup. Our focus is now on the Amir Cup.”
Regarding the departure of the team’s star Algerian striker Baghdad Bounedjah at the end of the season, the coach said, “Baghdad Bounedjah epitomizes dedication and loyalty throughout his career. He’s a role model and a fighter who consistently contributes to the team’s success. Every journey has its conclusion, and his timely announcement served as a morale boost for him and the players to persevere in the Amir Cup. We wish him the best in his future endeavours.”
He emphasized, “We are concentrating on the match against Al Duhail and we are not having any discussions about the final. We will exert maximum effort and utilize all available team members to secure victory and advance to the final.”
Rizik added, “Our captain Hassan Al Haydos has been a pivotal player for both the club and the national team, and he plays a crucial role in every match. Although he did not play against Al Wakrah, we expect to see his involvement in the semi-final. He remains an integral player for the team.”
We aim to win Cup, qualify for AFC Champions League: Al Duhail coach Galtier
Al Duhail’s head coach Christophe Galtier acknowledged that while Al Duhail’s performance in the league was sub par, he was confident that the team is focused on the Amir Cup.
“I took over the job at a sensitive time and needed time to adapt and create harmony and understanding with the players, and this had a clear impact on the team. We started poorly in the league, but we have improved in recent matches,” Galtier said. “The players are now focused on the Amir Cup, and everyone is optimistic.”
“Everyone knows the importance of the tournament, as it enjoys a large attendance and followers, whether locally or abroad, and there is an exceptionally positive atmosphere within the team, and everyone is optimistic”.
The coach continued: During the last match, we showed a fighting spirit and succeeded in coming back twice, and we were not satisfied with that, but we achieved victory.
Galtier said that winning the Amir Cup is now the team’s primary goal.
“The Amir Cup is our main goal now,” Galtier said. “We are two steps away from winning the title, and it is important not only for the players but for everyone at the club. This is our last chance to salvage our season. During the last match, we showed a fighting spirit and succeeded in coming back twice, and not only that, but we achieved victory.”
Galtier said that he has spoken to the coaching staff about the need to win the Amir Cup in order to qualify for the AFC Champions League.
“I don’t know what the future holds,” Galtier said. “We will face a strong team, but in cup matches, anything can happen. I have faith in my players and their ability to win this tournament and save our season.
“The winner will qualify for the AFC Champions League next season, and the players must give their all on the pitch. We started the tournament well, and we must continue in this way.”
The second Amir Cup 2024 semi-final between Qatar SC and Al Gharafa will be played on Sunday (May 19) at 7pm at the Al Janoub Stadium.
Amir Cup semis schedule: Saturday (May 18): Al Sadd vs Al Duhail at 7pm (Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium; Sunday (May19): Qatar SC vs Al Gharafa at 7pm at Al Janoub Stadium.