Ferreira: We know the game will be tough but the players are fully ready for it

Al-Sadd head coach Jesualdo Ferreira spoke of his elation at being in charge of the team in the 2018 AFC Champions League group stage, adding that the Wolves will face a difficult challenge from the rest of the teams.

Speaking at the pre-match press conference ahead of Al-Sadd’s opening game against Al-Wasl, Ferreira said: “This is a new tournament and a new challenge for Al-Sadd. We must be in our best condition if we are to give a top performance and get victories.”

He added that the away match against Al-Wasl will be a difficult proposition and that coming back with a positive result will require an excellent performance.

“We know how difficult the match will be. We also know the strenth of the opponent, who will be playing on their ground and in front of their fans,” said Ferreira. “(However) the Al-Sadd players will be fully ready for the game.”

As for his side’s 2-0 win over Al-Rayyan in their last game, the Al-Sadd head coach said that it would give them a great boost. “The win in that last game boosted the morale of the players. However, the AFC Champions League is different from the QSL.”

“The team is in a great run of form at the moment and this gives us a lot of confidence. The other teams in our group have the same chances to win as us but I expect Al-Sadd to qualify.”

Ferreira also praised his players. “We have an excellent group of players, there are experienced players and there are also youngsters. We will try to find the best combination between them so as to come up with a perfect display in the AFC Champions League this season.”

The coach went on to conclude by saying: “It will be a tough game but we are fully prepared to give a strong showing. I have full confidence in all my players.”