Mohammed Gholam: Esteghlal are not unknown to us; we are ready

Al-Sadd sporting director Mohammed Gholam Al-Baloushi spoke of the importance of the team’s Asian campaign in the 2017 AFC Champions League, a tournament in which the club has a long history.

Speaking at the sidelines of the group stage draw of the 2017 edition in Kuala Lumpur, he said: “The tournament is completely different from domestic tournaments, especially with the participation of the strongest teams in Asia. We hope to continue our form in Asia after our excellent performances in the QSL recently.”

As for the playoff match against Esteghlal, the sporting director said: “The Iranian teams are strong and have a long heritage in the tournament, along with the Qatari teams. Esteghlal are not unknown to us. Al-Sadd is ready for the match; our aim is to go far in the tournament.”