Al-Sadd head coach Roberto Mancini spoke about the importance of the upcoming clash against Al-Shamal in Round 22 of the 2025–2026 Doha Bank Stars League.
Mancini said: “Yes, it’s strange. We were five points ahead, and now the gap is down to two. But our focus is on winning. We know it will be a very tough game because Al-Shamal play good football, but our aim is to win this match.”
He added: “When we took over the team, we were eight points behind the leaders, Al-Gharafa, and now we are at the top. I believe we have done a very good job. The credit goes to our players — they are very talented and highly professional.”
The Italian coach concluded: “We hope all our fans will come to the stadium because this is a very important game — the final match, and we are playing for the title. We are waiting for them at the stadium.”
Meanwhile, Al-Sadd striker Roberto Firmino also commented on the decisive fixture, stressing its difficulty and importance in the title race.
Firmino said: “Now we know it will be a tough game. They are a very good team and have shown throughout the season that they play good football. We are aware of the challenge.”
He added: “We have to focus on our own game, give our best, and aim to win — and, of course, to become champions.”
The Brazilian continued: “This is the final match, and the title will be decided in this game. It will be a big battle because we need to win, and they also need to win to become champions. It should be a very good game. Hopefully, we can perform at our best, get the three points, and lift the title.”
Firmino also delivered a message to Al-Sadd fans: “First of all, my message to the fans is to come to the stadium. We need your support. It has been very important throughout the season, and I truly appreciate it. Thank you for all the support you have given us. It means a lot to the players on the pitch — it motivates us and gives us extra strength. Please come for this final game; it is very important for us, as I mentioned before. Hopefully, we can get the three points and celebrate the title together.”
