Michael Olunga (right) with team-mates after the end of Amir Cup match against Al Ahli on Monday.
Doha: Al Duhail star Assem Madibo yesterday said that his team’s 6-0 drubbing over Al Ahli in the Amir Cup on Monday will boost his team’s confidence ahead of their debut match at the FIFA Club World Cup Qatar 2020 next week.
New signing Michael Olunga scored a hat-trick on his Amir Cup debut as Sabri Lamouchi-coached Al Duhail produced a commanding performance against Al Ahli to cruise into the quarter-finals of the tournament.
It was the last competitive match for ‘The Red Knights’ before their FIFA Club World Cup clash against African champions Al Ahly to be played at the Education City on February 4.
“Our performance against Al Ahli is a huge morale booster for us before the match against Egypt’s Al Ahly,” said Madibo after the match.
“We played a draw against Qatar SC (in QNB Stars League) and we needed a strong performance after that before going into the Club World Cup. We are happy that we have achieved that," he said.
"It was a brilliant performance that helped us win this important match. We are very happy to advance at the Amir Cup which is a very important tournament for the team. Now our focus will be on Al Ahly game,” Madibo added.
Meanwhile, Al Duhail’s Ali Karimi said he was excited to represent his side at the FIFA Club World Cup.
“It’s an honour for every player to participate in this tournament. All Al Duhail players are targeting a strong performance and give their best,” said the Iranian footballer.
Karimi while speaking on huge win over Al Ahli said: “Amir Cup is a knockout tournament and you have to go out if you lose. That’s why we wanted to take control of the match early. We wanted to dominate Al Ahli and we did that and created many chances and converted them into goals. It was a good performance and I am very happy.”
Al Duhail have planned a closed training camp from February 1 to prepare for their Al Ahly clash, club’s executive director Adnan Al Ali said last week.
The FIFA Club World Cup will begin with the inaugural match between Asian champions Ulsan Hyundai FC and CONCACAF Champions League winners Tigres UANL on February 4 at the Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium.
The final of the tournament will be played on 11 February at the at Education City Stadium.
