Al Sadd coach Wesam Rizik spoke to the media ahead of their 2023-2024 season Expo Stars League Week 14 match against Al Wakrah.

“The Qatar national team’s victory in the AFC Asian Cup 2023 and the second successive title was a great achievement.

“We congratulate ourselves, all the clubs, the national federation and the players on this great achievement.

“Regarding the Al Wakrah match, I would say we are happy with the return of the league championship. A very important match awaits us against Al Wakrah and we have adequately prepared for it in order to achieve victory.

“I am happy with the physical condition of all international players after returning following the break. They realise the responsibility they have towards the team after the Asian Cup achievement. Our goal is to continue working in order to maintain the lead in the competition.

“Al Sadd fans know their role with the team. They give us great strength during the matches and they do not need an invitation to support the team’s progress,” said Wesam.

Al Sadd player Paulo Otavio said, “The match against Al Wakrah will be very strong. In the first leg, the result was a goalless draw. We are now in a new phase of the season after the end of AFC Asian Cup. We are in the lead and have the advantage, and our goal is to present a strong game in order to achieve victory.

“Our goal is three points and with the return of our international players, the team will be stronger and more cohesive.”