Italian coach Roberto Mancini expressed his happiness on guiding Al-Sadd to the final of the Amir Cup, stressing that the team enters the clash against Al-Gharafa with a clear ambition to win the title.
Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Mancini said: “Reaching the final is an important stage in the team’s journey. This match represents a real opportunity for the players to finish the season in the best possible way by winning the title.”
The Italian coach explained that finals are completely different from league matches because they are decided over just 90 minutes and leave no room for mistakes.
He added: “Both teams enter the match with one objective — victory — which makes the encounter open to all possibilities.”
Mancini also praised the quality and unity within the squad, saying: “Al-Sadd have a group of outstanding players who work together with great team spirit. Success in matches like these depends on playing as one unit and maintaining tactical discipline throughout the game.”
The Al-Sadd coach stressed that the team is not under pressure ahead of the final, stating: “Al-Sadd possess a strong character and enough experience to deal with these types of matches. I consider myself fortunate to coach this group of players.”
Regarding the squad’s readiness, Mancini confirmed: “All players are in good condition except Roberto Firmino, who has been suffering from illness since before the quarterfinal against Al-Shamal. The rest of the squad is ready.”
He concluded: “The team that maintains concentration and takes its chances better will have the final word in the match.”
Meanwhile, Al-Sadd captain Hassan Al-Haydos confirmed that the team enters the Amir Cup final against Al-Gharafa with great ambition and a strong desire to win the title.
Al-Haydos said: “Reaching this stage is an important achievement. Qualification for the final came after long-term work and major efforts from everyone in the team.”
He added: “We respect Al-Gharafa, but at the same time we believe in our abilities and our quality to achieve the objective.”
The Al-Sadd captain stressed that finals are decided by small details, saying: “Finals are completely different from other matches. They are often decided by small details in key moments. Mental focus and tactical discipline will be the most important factors in determining the champion.”
Al-Haydos also highlighted the team’s improvement under Mancini, saying: “The team has improved clearly on a technical level since Mancini took charge. The changes in the coaching approach have improved the collective performance through better organisation and by deploying players in their natural positions, and this has been reflected in our recent results.”
Speaking about the fans, he said: “Al-Sadd supporters are always a key source of support for the team, especially on major occasions. The fans do not need an invitation to attend, but their presence gives us extra motivation on the pitch.”
He concluded by expressing hope for a strong crowd in the final to provide the support needed in such an important match.
