Ferreira: We are determined to perform well, we came to Tashkent to win

Al-Sadd head coach Jesualdo Ferreira spoke of his team’s desire to continue performing well when they take on Pakhtakor on Matchday 3 of the AFC Champions League on Tuesday.

Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Ferreira said: “This is the second time I am visiting Uzbekistan. I know the atmosphere here for the matches and I have seen the ground. It’s a great ground and so I hope to see an exciting game from both sides. I know very well that it will be a tough game because we are playing against a strong side. But we are determined to play a good game and as is the norm for us, we have come to Tashkent to win. I hope that the team is fully ready because we have played many games recently.”

He added: “We are happy to win the league because it’s a very important tournament for us and it will motivate us to play a better game. Last year, we came here after having lost the league just a few days prior to the game. Today, our team is better and much more confident and happier – and this will help us perform well and get the win.”

“Every football team has to do two things – hold the ball and attack, and defend its goal. For us, when we have the ball, our team is very strong and I hope we continue doing this. And it is also very important to have a balance between defence and attack, especially as the opponent is also excellent in possession. So, the players need to be focused and we must use the opportunities that come our way so that we can score goals as always.”

“Pakhtakor will play the game as group leaders and in front of their home fans, so it’s not going to be easy at all.”

“Playing away from home is tougher and it is not a surprise when you lose an away game. Al-Sadd are generally good in away games because the crowds help to motivate the players to perform better on the pitch. I am sure that Al-Sadd will not play in a defensive way and will show our normal level.”

Finally, Ferreira had this to say about the absence of Saad Al-Dosari and Abdelkarim Hassan: “This is not the first ime we are playing without Saad. We have a lot of confidence in Meshaal (Barsham). The players are capable of making up for any absentees. Our trust in no them has no limits.”