Ferreira: Derby matches are different, Al-Sadd is only stronger on paper

Al-Sadd head coach Jesualdo Ferreira feels that his side’s upcoming derby clash with Al-Arabi will be different from other games, stressing that Al-Arabi have improved greatly recently.

Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Ferreira said: “Derbies are different from normal matches. All the players are fully motivated for this game. In the last two years, Al-Sadd have been better in terms of performances and results. But everyone should know that both my team and Al-Arabi have three points each and both teams are equal in every sense now.”

He added: “Al-Arabi have improved a lot and so the derby will be an intense game. I watched Al-Arabi’s last game against Al-Khor and saw how they have developed.”

“Al-Sadd have prepared well for this game, despite the temperatures in training. We have been working since July 12 in order to be fully prepared. We will go through this league campaign, taking one match at a time.”

“Tomorrow’s game is very crucial for us. We can’t judge Al-Arabi’s level from the last game. Al-Sadd are only better on paper.”

The coach also spoke about the changes in his side after last season. “There have been some changes in the team, with the coming of Gabi and Jung Woo-young. They need time to settle, especially Jung.”

“We need to work from game to game to give our best. We are working to compete for all titles.”

Ferreira added: “I want to maintain my record of never losing to Al-Arabi. We won’t let them win.”

Finally, Ferreira also had a word about injured Al-Duhail player Ismail Mohammed: “I am very sad about Ismail Mohammed’s injury and I wish him all the best. Everyone is at a loss with his injury, not just Al-Duhail alone. I wish he returns to his club and the national team soon.”