Ferreira: We achieved our aim of reaching the final, our players will witness history

Al-Sadd head coach Jesualdo Ferreira expressed his delight after his side reached the final of the 2019 Amir Cup with a 2-0 semifinal win over Al-Rayyan.

Speaking at the post-match press conference, Ferreira said: “Al-Sadd dominated throughout the 90 minutes. We were keen to avoid mistakes and conceding goals. We could have scored more but we played with defensive caution. We also missed a penalty and were not lucky in front of goal.”

“We are really happy that we have achieved this victory, just days after defeating Al-Ahli in the AFC Champions League. So I want to congratulate the players and also the fans who supported us. I would have been delighted to reach the final, even if the result was 1-0. I am happy that we will play the final at the Al-Wakrah Stadium, which will attract the attention of the world. Our players will never forget those historic moments. The fans need to be with us on that occasion. Today you saw the intense desire of the players to reach the final and get the title.”

“I don’t know who Al-Sadd will face in the final. But we will not have many chances, that’s how finals are because the teams are cautious and the Al-Sadd players are also tired. However, we won’t waste the chance to win the title. We know how tough the match between Al-Duhail and Al-Sailiyah. We will welcome any team.”

Ferreira also praised Xavi, who played his last home game. “Throughout my time working with Xavi, he was always at a high level. I want to salute Xavi, because he focused on the young players. He did not give importance to his status or fame; he just wanted to work for the team.”

Asked about Xavi becoming the coach of Al-Sadd, Ferreira said: “Xavi will be in the most suitable position in his sporting career. He knows Qatar well and he knows Al-Sadd and the players here. He will be fortunate that he will be in a country with good infrastructure that is unmatched in the world. I wish him and Al-Sadd all the best and I am sure that success will continue to follow Al-Sadd, because of the way Xavi deals with Al-Sadd, the fans and Qatari sport in general.”

Finally, he concluded by saying: “This is my 124th match with Al-Sadd. I am happy to end my career here at Al-Sadd’s stadium. I want to thank the Al-Sadd fans first, for their support for me throughout the years. My career with Al-Sadd is over but my coaching career is not done yet. I am ready to work with clubs in Qatar or outside if I get offers. I will study them with care and choose the best option for me. I want to continue working in Qatar or any other continent, and why not for many years to come. You know I will not abandon my love for football.”