Al Sadd coach Sergio Allegri spoke to the media ahead of their Qatar Clasico match against Al Rayyan.

“It is clear that the match against Al Rayyan will be very evenly matched. They are coming off their recent victory against Al Wakrah so they will enter the match with high morale, but we are working hard to get the three points and try to move up the standings.

“We realize that the current situation is not the best for the team, but the players are highly motivated and are working in the best way possible. They know how important this match is for everyone at the club, especially for the fans. We want to put on a great performance for them and continue working in this direction.”

Al Sadd goalkeeper Meshaal Barsham said: “We play wearing the Al Sadd logo and we must come back strong, hoping for the support of the Al Sadd fans in the match against Al Rayyan and throughout the season.”