Al Sadd coach Xavi Hernandez and Algerian star Baghdad Bounedjah spoke to the media ahead of their 2020-21 season QNB Stars League Week 10 match against Al Rayyan, dubbed the Qatar Clasico.

“We have the Qatar Clasico. This is a very important match and means a lot to us. It is also important in terms of competition for the league because the gap between us and Al Rayyan is 12 points.

“Our goal is to win, to continue the series of victories, and we have not lost any match so far. Therefore, it is an important game for us and also for the fans.

“We have to change the mentality after winning the Amir Cup because this is a different tournament. We have to forget what happened in the Amir Cup final and focus on this match because it will be very difficult and complicated.

“Regarding Al Rayyan’s new coach (Laurent) Blanc, I have not played against him, but I respect him a lot because he is a big name in the world of football. I welcome him to Qatar and QNB Stars League. It will be an honour for me to meet him again because he is a great player and coach.

“We want to compete and continue winning, and we are now in a good position in the league. Everyone is eager and we are ready to face Al Rayyan and continue at the same level,” said Xavi.

Al Sadd player Baghdad Bounedjah said, A big match awaits us. Our games with Al Rayyan are always enjoyable and strong, and the most focused team will reap match points.

“We thank God for winning the Amir Cup after defeating Al Arabi. Our focus is now on the Al Rayyan match, where victory is equivalent to six points.

“I always strive to score in every match in order to help my team and the most important thing is to help the team stay on top of the league table.”