Al Wakrah coach Marquez Lopez spoke to the media ahead of their 2021-2022 season QNB Stars League Week 9 match against Umm Salal.

“Preparation for the Umm Salal match was almost limited to one day only because we had a recovery session on Monday evening and we had only Tuesday and Wednesday, during which we were keen to focus on one training session with great concentration in order to prepare for this match.

“When the team wins, the benefit is for everyone in all aspects, be it technical, psychological or even physical. Now, the team is cohesive in terms of attack and defence. In eight matches, we conceded only four goals.

“I am very happy because of the levels we have presented so far and I am happy with the players’ performance and the way they play. All I hope is that we continue at this level in the rest of the league competition,” said Marquez.

Al Wakrah player Mohamed Benyettou said, “The match against Umm Salal will be difficult because of the strength of the opposing team and considering a large number of outstanding players in their ranks.

“We strive to continue our victories and win points, but at the same time we realize that it will be a difficult match because everyone knows that Umm Salal this season are different and play well, in an organized way.

“We are able to maintain the good image that we have presented so far in the league championship. Perhaps the last match against Al Gharafa was the biggest proof of that. Then, we had the big victory over Al Duhail in Week 5.”