Al Sadd coach Xavi Hernandez spoke to the media ahead of their 2021-2022 season QNB Stars League Week 9 match against Al Duhail.

“The matches between Al Sadd and Al Duhail are the best in Qatar now. Currently, we are the best two teams in the tournament. Al Sadd are at the top of the table with a difference of three points and we must work hard to win to continue to lead.

“Al Duhail have signed good players such as Toby Alderweireld and Nam Tae-Hee, and they have other foreign players such as Olunga and Edmilson, and it will be a difficult match and we are very excited to play in this type of match.

“They have a very good coach in Luis Castro. He is working well and you can see that in the team. We expect a tough game and we have to play at our best level to get the three points for sure.

“Regarding the team’s readiness for the match, I told the players that if we get the three points against Al Ahli and the next three against Al Duhail, of course the difference will be six points and we will be in the best position to win the league again. Certainly, it is still early and of course this match will not decide anything. But it will be very important because we can increase the difference to six points.

“Regarding the readiness of Boualem Khoukhi and Akram Afif for the match, I can say that all players would be ready for the match. We are talking about two very important players - Akram and Khoukhi - who can make the difference in their position. I expect that we can count on them, but we have to see how they feel. I am optimistic, but their participation depends on how they feel better,” said Xavi.

Al Sadd player Pedro Miguel said, “Our next match is difficult and it is a good team with great players. We know it is a very difficult match, but I think the leaders are ready for it.

“Everyone is focused on getting the three points. It is important for us to continue competing for the league title.

“We got three important points against Al Ahli and now we focus on Al Duhail because it will be a difficult match and all players are excited to play in such matches. Everyone knows that it is a great match against a strong team.”