Al Duhail coach Sabri Lamouchi spoke to the media ahead of their 2021 Qatar Cup final against Al Sadd.

“My team is ready to face Al Sadd. Al Duhail will continue to play good football and remain strong on the pitch like we did against Al Gharafa in the semifinal.

“Given the circumstances, we have tried to prepare in the best way to go into the match with the aim of achieving victory.

“We are trying hard despite the pressure of playing many matches and the lack of time for players to recover from injuries.

“The two teams are undoubtedly looking forward to winning the title. Both teams are among the best in Qatar. We must work to avoid mistakes and pay attention to details to achieve the desired goal, which is winning the Qatar Cup.

“The strength of Al Sadd in the recent matches cannot be denied. But I have told the team’s players to focus more in order to achieve victory.

“I think going directly to penalties in case of a tie (in regular time) is very good. This helps players avoid suffering from fatigue especially when there is pressure of playing many matches. The players have put in great efforts throughout the recent past. I am sure the players will continue to make more efforts in this match and to get the desired result in regulation time.

“Winning the Qatar Cup is one of our main goals in the season. Our fighting spirit looks good. The players are showing they want to win. And they have been putting in a lot of efforts in the last four months. If we win, that would be a good reward for our hard work.

“We will not have Louis Martin Junior due to his surgery, while Mohammed Muntari’s position is still not determined whether to play him or not,” said Lamouchi.

We’re ready for the final: Almoez

Al Duhail player Almoez Ali said, “We are fully ready to play the final. Al Duhail are on the right track. We have been offering very good levels since our FIFA Club World Cup appearance despite the fatigue and pressure of matches for most players.

“I hope the team presents a great level during the final, so we can win the title. The final is one game that separates the winners and losers, and I repeat cup matches are completely different from the league.

“I am sad at Akram Afif’s absence from the final due to his suspension. He is like my brother and his presence gives a great addition and momentum to every match we play. His presence is a massive boost to his side. Undoubtedly, his absence will be felt, but this does not mean that Al Sadd will be easy to play against.

“Al Sadd have a strong group of outstanding players. If we are to win, then we must put in double our efforts on the pitch. We have to stay focused from start to finish.”