Al Sadd’s Mancini expects cliffhanger in Amir Cup semi-final against Al Duhail

Doha, Qatar: Coach Roberto Mancini said he focused on recovery after Friday’s gruelling 6-4 win over Al Shamal as Al Sadd gear up for their Amir Cup semi-final against arch-rivals Al Duhail.

The Qatari giants meet at Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium tonight with a place in the May 9 final at stake.

Fresh from clinching their 19th Qatar Stars League (QSL) title, Al Sadd carry momentum as they chase a record-extending 20th Amir Cup crown. Al Shamal, however, pushed them hard in the quarter-finals, mounting a strong fightback before Al Sadd won a tense contest.

Mancini expects another tight encounter against Djamel Belmadi’s side.

“We are facing one of the best teams in Qatar and it will not be an easy match,” the Italian said.

“The schedule has been demanding, but the players are ready for this challenge.”

Al Duhail endured a below-par QSL campaign, finishing fifth - 12 points behind Al Sadd - but Mancini insisted that counts for little in a semi-final.

“Cup matches are different. Small details decide who reaches the final,” he said.

“We want to avoid mistakes from the last game and keep a clean sheet against a strong attacking side. Our goal is clear - to win and continue our push for the title.”Al Duhail coach Djamel Belmadi speaks during a press conference.

Al Sadd forward Giovani believes the team can overcome fatigue.

“We know it will be a difficult match, even with limited recovery time,” he said.

“Our goal is to score and reach the final, and we believe we can do it. We want to win the Amir Cup and make our fans happy.”

Despite their league struggles, Al Duhail have impressed in the Amir Cup, thrashing Al Arabi 4-0 in the quarter-finals. Belmadi said his side will go all out to end the season on a high.

“Al Sadd are a strong, title-winning side. We expect a tough match,” he said.

“This is our last competition of the season. The Amir Cup is our opportunity. We want this title for the club, players and fans. We’ll give everything.”

Al Duhail striker Almoez Ali said the mood in camp is positive.

“We are ready and fully aware of the importance of this match,” he said.

“It’s a big game against Al Sadd. We want to reach the final.”

Al Gharafa, Al Wakrah set for thriller

Today’s first semi-final sees defending champions Al Gharafa face Al Wakrah at Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium.

Al Gharafa edged Umm Salal 2-1, while Al Wakrah stunned Al Rayyan 3-0 to book their spots.

Al Gharafa coach Pedro Martins said his players are eager for another strong run.

“We are ready, but the focus is on the players’ mental and physical condition,” he said.

“We are one step away from the final and the players are motivated. We reached the final last year and want to relive those moments.”

Forward Ahmed Al Ganehi said the team must stay sharp.

“We are the title holders and want to reach the final to defend it,” he said.

“We are ready and focused. We hope for a strong performance and need our fans’ support.”

Al Wakrah coach Jose Sierra stressed the need to raise their level.

“We know Al Gharafa’s quality, but we are ready and determined to reach the final,” he said.

“We gave everything in the quarter-finals and must do even more here.”

Goalkeeper Saud Al Khater added: “We have a real chance to reach the final and that is a big motivation. Al Gharafa are a strong side, but we are confident and will give everything.”