A possible date with Barcelona’s glittering line-up was a “wonderful thing” for Al Sadd, said coach Jorge Fossati Sunday, after qualifying for the World Club Cup by winning the AFC Champions League. Fossati, who led the Qatari side to a dramatic win on penalties against South Korea’s Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors, said his team could meet Lionel Messi, Cesc Fabregas and Xavi in the competition which starts on December 8 in Tokyo.
“It’s a wonderful thing for my players,” the Uruguayan told AFP, explaining that the draw means his side must win at least one game before setting up the clash between the little known Qataris and the Catalan giants.
“We must enjoy our victory now, but we will soon represent Asia in the World Club Cup, so we need to be in top condition for that.
“We will continue to improve and I will push the team to go to Japan to have more than just a look… we must perform and see what happens.”
Fossati was speaking in Incheon airport before the team flight to Doha after a night of celebrations following their 4-2 win on penalties in the thrilling Champions League final against favourites Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors.
His side triumphed after a nail-biting 2-2 stalemate forced extra-time and then penalties, which saw Al Sadd claim a continental trophy for the first time since 1989. “I’m proud of the these players and the mentality they have shown to win the trophy,” he said. “They can now trust themselves.”
The World Club Cup will see clubs from every continent compete over ten days in Japan. The field is led by Barcelona and Santos, with Al Sadd joining the winners of the J-League and Mexico’s Monterrey.
