Sanchez: UAE’s match is like a final

Qatar coach Felix Sanchez described the match against UAE as final.

“Winning this game is the only way we are thinking of reaching the semi-finals. It will be a difficult game and we feel very confident,” he told a news conference ahead of the 24th Gulf Cup.

Sanchez stressed that the Yemen match was also like a final, saying: “We have revived our hope, and we need to get the points of the UAE’s match to reach the finals. The game will be harder because it is the last chance for both teams.”

On the nomination of Akram Afif for the AFC awards and the possibility of his absence from the game, he said: “For these things we need to make this decision. We need all the players.”

He added: “We need to review how ready the team is and also to see some medical reports about the injured players, and depending on the readiness of the players, we will select the squad.”

Regarding the importance of scoring goals, Sanchez said: “Before yesterday’s game and before I knew the outcome of Iraq’s match, I knew we had to score as many goals as we can. We did our duty and now we are in a more comfortable position.”

“We are playing to win because playing for a draw is dangerous and it will be difficult. It is always important to look for the three points.”

“I hope the stadium will be full,” Sanchez said. “We need to have the support of the fans. The fans have supported us and we have to show the spirit in the next game.”

Regarding Abdul Karim Hassan, he said: “I think he did well. Not the first game in which he shines. He has the professional mentality as in yesterday’s game, and he was there to help the team and we were happy with his commitment and excellence.”

“I cannot imagine what will happen after three years. I think the stadiums will be full to help us,” he said of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. “This is a preparation for the future.”