Ferreira: Al-Ahli deserves the win, we are still suffering from ACL exit

Al-Sadd head coach Jesualdo Ferreira described his side’s 4-1 defeat to Al-Ahli in the QNB Stars League as a “disappointing result”, adding that it was “difficult” to play the game after the exit from the AFC Champions League.

Speaking after the game, Ferreira said: “The players are still in shock after they were unable to fulfil the dream of playing in the Champions League final. Al-Ahli deserved the win; Al-Sadd went into this game suffering physically and mentally after the game in Iran.”

He added: “Al-Ahli are a strong team and put up a great performance. Congratulations to them for this victory.”

As for losing by four goals despite having many chances, Ferreira said: “We had a number of chances to score goals but we ended up suffering our first defeat of the season. It happened because of a lack of focus from our players. This will make things difficult for us in the coming game.”‘

Ferreira also stated that his coaching staff would work with the players to restore their focus and performance, adding that only hard work can return the team to victories.

Finally, the coach said: “Since the start of the season, we have been fighting on two fronts, both domestically and in Asia. We faced strong teams and the teams are suffering from fatigue. The league title is still out there to play for, despite the tough situation we are going through and Al-Duhail’s lead. We still have hope and at Al-Sadd, we never give up.”