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<p>Akram Afif, a key player of Al Sadd, is one of the stars in the QNB Stars League. The 21-year-old has been performing exceptionally well at both domestic and Asian levels, and plays a vital role in the team’s fortunes.</p><p>Akram, who has represented Spanish La Liga club Villarreal, spoke to QSL Online in an exclusive interview ahead of the Qatar Clasico between Al Sadd and Al Rayyan. Excerpts:</p><p><strong>How do you see the Qatar Clasico against Al Rayyan?</strong></p><p>It is a tough game between two teams with big history in the Qatar league. The match will be keenly followed by all Qatar football fans.</p><p><strong>What does this game mean to you?</strong></p><p>It means a lot especially because we will play with one target — to win and collect three points. We know that the league this season is more strong.</p><p><strong>What is your expectation of the game?</strong></p><p>In big games, there is no specific expectation. Each team will have its own playing style and we are ready to play for a win.</p><p><strong>Can Al Sadd win easily going by the current form?</strong></p><p>There is no easy game. We are facing tough opponents and we will do our best to win.</p><p><strong>Who is the Al Rayyan player you worry about?</strong></p><p>There is no specific player. No team depends on one player, they always play collectively.</p><p><strong>About Khalfan Ibrahim, the current Al Rayyan player who previously represented Al Sadd…</strong></p><p>Khalfan is a great player. He has much influence inside the field and I always wish him success.</p><p><strong>What are the strengths of both teams?</strong></p><p>Each team has its own strengths, the way they play will show that. We only focus on our team, the way we play in order to win.</p>
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<p><strong>You are performing well since the start of this season. What do you promise Al Sadd fans on this match?</strong></p><p>I am always looking to improve. I thank the technical staff and my team-mates for helping me. I promise our fans that we will keep working hard.</p><p><strong>How do you see the QNB Stars League competition this season?</strong></p><p>The competition is tough. The start has indicated that. We must try not to lose any point if we have to top the standings.</p><p><strong>Can Al Sadd win the league title early this time?</strong></p><p>We have the ability to do that. But it is too early to think who will become the champions.</p><p><strong>What is the secret of harmony and understanding between you and Baghdad Bounedjah?</strong></p><p>Bounedjah is a very special striker. He helps the team a lot. I think the harmony between us is growing after every game.</p><p><strong>What are your ambitions with the team?</strong></p><p>I am definitely looking to win titles with Al Sadd. The season is tough. We are keen to excel both on the domestic and continental fronts.</p><p><strong>Al Sadd fans wish that you win the title, what do you say to them?</strong></p><p>Our main target is QNB Stars League title and we will work very hard to achieve it, but I can’t promise anything. Football is unpredictable. However, we will work hard to achieve all our targets.</p>