Al Rayyan coach Michael Laudrup spoke to the media ahead of their QNB Stars League Round 5 match against Al Sailiya, scheduled for Friday.

“Al Sailiya are a strong side and their place (fifth) in the standings is proof for that. We had played a pre-season friendly with them and the result was 2-2. So we give them due respect,” said Laudrup.

“Our primary target this season is to be in top four and then go for the league title. We also wish to play in the AFC Champions League. For that, we’ve to qualify through two play-off games in January.

“Keeping all this in mind, we’ve been giving opportunities to many youngsters, like Ahmed Al Saadi (who was present at the pre-match Press Conference. We need them to be ready for the big matches, especially since Qatar is hosting the FIFA World Cup in five years’ time.

“We’re also keen to close the gap with top two teams Al Duhail and Al Sadd. We’ve the strength to go for the title. Abderrazzak Hamdellah’s good form augurs well for us. We want to win some titles this season,” the Dane concluded.