Ferreira: Saddened by Ibrahim Majid’s injury, the draw with Al-Gharafa is a warning bell

Al-Sadd head coach Jesualdo Ferreira spoke of his disappointment after his side drew 1-1 with Al-Gharafa in the QNB Stars League Round 3 match played on Sunday.

Speaking at the post-match press conference, Ferreira said: “As I had said earlier, the match and Al-Gharafa would bring up surprises, especially as they are a strong team with excellent players. They exploited our mistakes to score the first goal after Bounedjah missed the penalty.”

“In the second half, we put a lot of pressure and threatened the Al-Gharafa goal on many occasions. Al-Haydos scored the equaliser from the spot but this draw is a warning bell for the players, ahead of the upcoming games in Asia and at home.”

He added: “I am disappointed by the result, but more so by Ibrahim Majid’s injury. I would rather not have him injured even if we lost the match.”

Ferreira also pointed out that he had asked the players to be fully focused as Al-Gharafa had displayed great form. “Al-Sadd were not mentally ready today, which is one of the reasons we conceded the first goal. I warn the players to not lose their focus, especially before the game against Esteghlal. The lack of focus was the prime reason we wasted many chances, which would have been enough for us to score three or four goals.”

Finally, he said: “The Al-Sadd players are very professional and are capable of returning strongly in the next game (against Esteghlal). Also, as I said before, the team hasn’t reached its peak yet.”