AFC Champions League Elite - Al Sadd’s Mancini keeps qualification faith

Doha: Roberto Mancini is hopeful that Al Sadd SC’s 2-0 win against Tractor FC in the AFC Champions League Elite 2025/26™ will be the tonic for the Qatari side to book a spot in the Round of 16.

Victory saw Al Sadd climb up to eighth in the West Zone standings, the final qualifying position and Mancini is determined to make sure the 2011 champions don’t slip up.

#ACLElite | Tractor FC (IRN) 0-2 Al Sadd SC (QAT)

“The match was difficult, and we delivered a good performance, especially in the second half where we created many chances, scored two goals, and secured three important points,” said Mancini.

“We faced an opponent that had not lost a single match in the competition this season, so it was very important for us to defeat Tractor. We still have some hopes (to qualify), and we will hold on to them."

“I am happy with the victory and grateful for the support of the Al Sadd fans. I hope they continue supporting the team strongly in the upcoming matches.”

Losing for the first time was a shock to the system for Tractor and head coach Dragan Skocic, having won four and drawn twice in their opening six matches to seal their place in the Round of 16 in advance.

“Our team played a difficult match, as expected, against a strong opponent with a selection of outstanding players,” said Skocic.

“We lost due to some individual errors in defensive coverage, and we will work on learning from this match to come back stronger.”

Next week’s concluding League Stage ties see Al Sadd looking to finish the job against Saudi Arabia’s Al Ittihad Club while Tractor take on Al Gharafa SC of Qatar.

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