Ferreira: We will fight to retain the title

Al-Sadd head coach Jesualdo Ferreira has praised the club’s fans for the huge role they have played in the win over Al-Rayyan during the Qatar Cup semifinals.

Speaking at the pre-match press conference ahead of Friday’s final against Al-Duhail, Ferreira said: “If it was not for the support of our fans, we wouldn’t have achieved anything. Without them, we won’t be able to retain the Qatar Cup and HH the Emir’s Cup. We await their presence and support.”

He added: “Friday’s match is the final of an important trophy in Qatar. It is my sixth final with Al-Sadd and this is the proof of my success with the team. I hope the success continues.”

“We will be playing a team that is strong not just domestically but in Asia as well. They are the biggest favourites as some think. We will give our best to retain the title. All the players are motivated and we’re sure the fans won’t let us down (either).”

The coach went on: “I am someone who loves Cup tournaments. Winning them motivates me as a coach. My philosophy is to always go for the win.”

“At the start of the season, we defeated Al-Duhail in the Super Cup. (But) the league was very difficult this season. We suffered from a lot of problems but this is football. What’s important now is to focus on the two Cups and win them.”

As for the use of Video Assistant Referee (VAR), Ferreira said: “The VAR system began in this season and cannot blame the referees. They need time to gain experience. I agree with the use of this technology because its aim is to bring fairness.”

Finally, when asked about Al Duhail coach Djamel Belmadi’s comment about Al-Sadd players being worried about facing his team, Ferreira said: “Belmadi himself is the one who’s worried when he says this about Al-Sadd and its players.”