Umm Salal coach Laurent Banide spoke to the media ahead of their QNB Stars League Week 1 match against Al Sailiya.

“All games are difficult, but things are in our hands to a great extent, especially at the start of the season. We have to embark on our campaign on a confident note.

“We must perform well. We are trying to strike the right balance between attack and defence. We must create enough scoring opportunities and capitalise on them.

“We will see if the team is able to provide a good level. We had a good camp in the pre-season and we seek to implement the strategies on the field. 

“The season is sure to be tough and we have to be prepared for the gruelling games.

“We missed out on the fourth position to Al Gharafa very narrowly last season. We will try to be in the top four this time. We have the players to deliver the goods. Most of them are staying from last year,” said Banide.