Xavi: We respect Al-Duhail, we’re prepared for this challenge

Al-Sadd head coach Xavi Hernandez spoke to the media on Monday, expressing his confidence in the team ahead of the AFC Champions League Round of 16 first leg clash with Al-Duhail.

Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Xavi said: “I’d like to say first how happy I am to be here as the coach of Al-Sadd. I want to thank the club management for giving me this opportunity. I’m also delighted to be coaching such excellent players, who have great qualities.”

“We have some huge challenges coming up. Al-Duhail is a strong team. We respect them a lot; they have excellent players and even today, we are reminded of the Amir Cup final at this ground.”

“We are fully prepared for this challenge, at the start of the season,” he added.

Asked about Al-Sadd’s ability to keep scoring like they did last season, Xavi said: “Yes, our goal is to always keep attacking. It is difficult to score 100 goals every season. Our goal is to win titles and there is a big challenge in front of us. We will take it step by step. .”

The coach added: “We are ready for tomorrow’s game. We have internationals who are at a top level. They are experienced and I am happy with their performances with the Qatar national team at the Copa America. I have a new philosophy and I think that the players are ready to implement it on the pitch.”

As for playing Al-Duhail thrice in ten days, Xavi said: “You know that in the Spanish league, Real Madrid and Barcelona have to sometimes play thrice. This happens with the big teams. We love to take on challenges. Our goal is to qualify for the next stage as we did in the last edition.”

“We are ready for this game. In football, anything can happen. I hope all three matches turn out in our favour.”

He also said: “I won all titles with Al-Sadd except for the Champions League title. Why can’t we win it? We reached the semifinals (last time). Football is full of challenges and we have this opportunity in front of us to go further in the path towards the title.”

“We are going to face Al-Duhail, who are one of the strongest teams in the Middle East. I am happy with the group I am working with. We have a strong team who put up good performances in the pre-season friendlies. I am very happy with the kind of players I have and we are all prepared for this challenge.”