Al Wakrah Coach Targets Win Against Ravshan to Conclude Group Stage Successfully.

Doha: Al Wakrah's coach, Ali Rahma Al Marri, expressed his intent to secure a win against Tajikistan's Ravshan tomorrow, Wednesday, at Al Janoub Stadium in the final group-stage match of the AFC Champions League 2. According to Qatar News Agency, in a pre-match press conference, Rahma emphasized his team's aim to finish the group stage strong, having already qualified for the Round of 16 after their 3-3 draw with Tractor SC of Iran in the previous round. While the draw was disappointing given Al Wakrah's strong performance, Rahma acknowledged the team had missed out on a win in the dying moments. Even though qualification is secured, Rahma stated that the team would approach the Ravshan match with full focus, motivated to claim three points. He confirmed he would choose the best starting lineup based on players' physical and technical readiness, and expressed confidence in his squad's ability to perform at their best and maintain their positive form. Rahma also highlighted the benefits of the tournament f or his players, including valuable experience, adaptation to the pressures of frequent matches, and playing in different environments. He noted that this year's competition is particularly tough, with teams like Tractor SC among the strongest. Ahmed Fadhil, Al Wakrah's captain, also shared his hope of delivering the required performance and securing a win against Ravshan. He emphasized that the team would treat the match with utmost seriousness and be fully prepared, as this is a prestigious Asian competition. Fadhil also stated he would do his part as a leader, helping the coaching and administrative staff, and reassured that every player knows their role and responsibility in the squad, with a strong, family-like team atmosphere. Al Wakrah has already secured its place in the Round of 16 after their 3-3 draw with Tractor SC, bringing their points tally to 4 and securing second place in the group. The AFC Champions League 2 is the largest club competition in Asian football, with 14 teams competing for the first time in the revamped format, which was previously known as the AFC Cup from 2003 to the 2023-2024 season. The top two teams from each group will advance to the Round of 16 in February 2025, followed by the quarter-finals in March 2025, and the semi-finals in April 2025. The final will take place on May 17, 2025.