Al Sadd seek to turn domestic dominance into Asian success in Kawasaki quarter-final

Doha, Qatar: Qatar giants Al Sadd are in the midst of a dream domestic campaign crowned Qatar Stars League champions, finalists in the Qatar Cup, an...

Doha, Qatar: Qatar giants Al Sadd are in the midst of a dream domestic campaign – crowned Qatar Stars League champions, finalists in the Qatar Cup, and strong contenders to defend their Amir Cup title. But today, Felix Sanchez’s side will step onto a different stage as they face Japan’s Kawasaki Frontale in the AFC Champions League Elite quarter-finals in Jeddah.

The Wolves have delivered outstanding performances on the domestic front, overtaking long-time leaders Al Duhail to clinch the QSL crown before thumping Al Ahli 3-0 in the semi-finals to book a place in the Qatar Cup final. They are also favourites to reach the Amir Cup final on May 24 as they face Second Division side Al Kharaitiyat in the Round of 16 next week.

Al Sadd captain Hassan Al Haydos said the team is brimming with confidence, with all players eager to maintain their form on the continental stage.

“Winning the league title recently has been a motivation for us. We’ve been improving and qualified for the Qatar Cup final,” said the two-time Asian Cup-winning former Qatar skipper, who was quick to acknowledge the challenge posed by Kawasaki.

“It is a different competition and facing Kawasaki in the quarter-finals will be tough. But we are fully focused and determined to achieve a positive result. We need to stay focused against them,” Al Haydos said on the eve of the clash at Prince Abdullah Al Faisal Stadium. The match will kick off at 7pm.