Xavi: Al-Sadd is still alive, we aim to return to winning ways against Qatar SC

Al-Sadd head coach Xavi Hernandez expressed his confidence in his side, ahead of the upcoming QNB Stars League Round 10 game against Qatar SC.

Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Xavi said: “Our goal is to return to winning ways against Qatar SC. We want to get the three points. The Qatari league has changed a lot and it’s stronger now. We must return to the proper path and not commit errors, like in the games against Al-Rayyan and Al-Duhail.”

On the form of Baghdad Bounedjah and Akram Afif up front, the coach said: “All the pressure is not on the striker. Baghdad is doing well and I am happy with his and Afif’s performances. Luck has not been in their favour in the last few games. They are two of the best players in the league and I think they will return to goalscoring in the upcoming games.”

He added: “We lost to Al-Rayyan and Al-Duhail but Al-Sadd is still alive and we aim to achieve our goal – which is to win the league and compete for all the titles in this season.”

As for Al-Sadd’s preparedness ahead of the next game, Xavi pointed out that the team is working hard and has performed well in all games except one – against Al-Duhail.

“But we are generally performing well at home and in Asia. Our players are of a high level in terms of mental strength. We always speak to them and motivate them to keep giving their best.”

Asked about the anger from the fans due to the team’s recent results, Xavi said: “The Al-Sadd fans supported us from the start of the season and helped us win the Sheikh Jassim Cup and reach the semifinals of the AFC Champions League. They will continue to support us strongly.”

“We, the coaches, listen to the views of the fans. There should be no pressure on the players. The fans will understand our situation, especially as everyone in the team is committed to working together and winning the upcoming matches.”

On Al-Sadd’s preparations for the Club World Cup, Xavi said: “It requires special preparations. The team is really excited. It’s a historic tournament and we are happy to participate. Our preparations will begin after the Qatar SC game.”