Doha [Qatar], March 13: Al Rayyan's Portuguese coach Artur Jorge has expressed relief on the resumption of Qatar Stars League in difficult times with ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Al Rayyan are scheduled to play Al Shahania in their round 18 match at the Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium on Friday.
Speaking to the media on eve of the match against Al Shahania, Jorge said, "We are happy the league is back after a break. We feel safe in Qatar and we thank the country for the security and safety it has been providing to all."
He added: "Our focus now is on finishing the league in a position befitting Al Rayyan's ambition and those of the club's fans. The team's preparations for the Al Shahania match have been good and the upcoming game represents an important opportunity for us to continue working and achieve a positive result."Al Rayyan goalkeeper Sami Baldi emphasized on the team's readiness. "We are excited to return to competition after the recent break, and the players are ready. We have worked as a team during this period, and we strive to perform well in the next stage."
Among the other matches tomorrow, Al Ahli will face Al Arabi at the Al Thumama Stadium while table toppers and defending champions Al Sadd will meet Umm Salal at the Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium.
Al Arabi's Romanian coach Cosmin Contra also expressed his gratitude to the State of Qatar for the well being.
"Aside from football, we would like to express our deep gratitude to the State of Qatar. The security situation and the calmness we are experiencing reflects a high level of professionalism in dealing with such situations. We extend our sincere thanks to those responsible for protecting the country and ensuring everyone's safety, which allows us to carry out our work in a completely secure environment." he said.
Al Sadd wary of Umm Salal
Al Sadd's assistant coach Sergio Allegri said the match against Umm Salal will be tough and intense.
"The match against Umm Salal will certainly be difficult and we will need have to give our 100% to get the three points.
"We need to continue with our top efforts to continue winning and extend our lead at the top of the league."
Al Sadd star Akram Afif said, "From now on, every remaining match in the league is crucial; we have to win every single one of them.
"We are ready to face Umm Salal. Our focus is on achieving the three to maintain our lead and retain the title."
Umm Salal coach Ruben Albes said his side will try to bet at their best against Al Sadd."We know it's a big match against the league leaders but we will go in aiming for a positive result. We shall try to maintain our performance from the previous matches and put on a good show that will benefit the team in its league campaign."
Source: Qatar Tribune
