Amir Cup Round of 16 matches kick-off today
Tribune News Network
Doha
Al Shahania will meet Mesaimeer at the Al Thumama Stadium on Sunday at 5.15pm as the Round of 16 of the prestigious Amir Cup football tournament get underway. Ah Ahli will lock horns with Qatar SC at the Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium at 8.15pm.
Speaking ahead of the match, Al Shahania coach Jose Murcia said, 'The Amir Cup is different now. Mesaimeer had a strong season in the Second Division, and this match feels like a final. We have to stay focused.'
'Our ambition is high. Right now, the focus is on Mesaimeer. We must qualify from the round of 16 — then our ambition will grow. We're motivated, but we won't forget where we came from. In the Amir Cup, anything is possible.'
Mesaimeer coach Mubarak Rashteh, said, 'We've prepared well and the players are fully focused. We've had good results in the Second Division, but this match won't be easy for either side. These games often come down to luck — and we'll need some of that.'
'Injuries have affected us this season, but we're ready now. This match is like a final for us. Nothing is impossible in the cup, and every team has the right to dream in the country's most prestigious tournament.'
Al Ahli coach Igor Biscan said they are looking forward to the clash with Qatar SC.
'We're very happy to be part of the Amir Cup. The match against Qatar SC is like a final for us. We have to give everything. Al Ahli hasn't reached the later stages in recent years, but we're motivated and fully focused this time,' he said.
'Yes, we lost a tough Qatar Cup semi-final. We played well but must be sharper, avoid mistakes, and be more practical. We couldn't make changes last season due to squad issues, but now we must defend well and not concede — that's key in knockout matches.'
Qatar SC coach Youssef Safri, said, 'The Amir Cup is one of the greatest tournaments in Qatari football. Winning it is an honour for every player, coach, and club.'
'We reached the final last season and lost to Al Sadd. We know how hard it is to get there again.'
'We start this year's campaign against Al Ahli, a well-organized and consistent team. The Emir's Cup is just four matches — we treat each one like a final and give the tournament the respect it deserves.'
'Competing for the Emir's Cup is every club's right. Al Ahli is strong and finished in the top four. We're ready despite the absence of Ahmed Abdel Qader through injury. Focus and determination will be key.'
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