
Qadsia Coach: We Deserved the Final After Al-Hilal's Withdrawal
Spanish coach Michel Gonzalez, the head of the Qadsia team, confirmed that the Saudi Super Cup being held in Hong Kong represents a significant motivation for them to start a strong season, noting that Al-Hilal's absence has created a void in the list of participants.
Gonzalez explained in the press conference before the semi-final match against Al-Ahli that his team does not fear any opponent, emphasizing that reaching the tournament was the result of hard work last season, and they have the desire to continue developing and delivering high levels.
He added that the tournament includes the top four teams from last season, except for Al-Hilal, which did not participate, stressing that his team's preparations were not affected by either the match against Al-Ahli or facing Al-Hilal, but he believed that Al-Hilal's withdrawal warranted Qadsia's direct presence in the final.
Regarding Al-Ahli's participation instead of Al-Hilal, the Spanish coach stated that his focus is on preparing the team without delving into organizational decisions, noting that Qadsia's ambition is to replicate the achievement of 1995 when they were crowned champions in Hong Kong.
Gonzalez spoke about ambitions after the summer signings and the departure of striker Aubameyang, praising his contributions, confirming that the substitute Retegui will face a significant challenge to prove himself, pointing out that success in football does not solely depend on the amount spent but on the value of the group.
He concluded his remarks by emphasizing the strength of competition in Saudi Arabia, citing Al-Hilal's participation in the Club World Cup as evidence of significant development, while Belgian goalkeeper Castells expressed his happiness with the warm reception from the fans in Hong Kong, confirming that the players are eager to present an honorable image of the team.
Gonzalez explained in the press conference before the semi-final match against Al-Ahli that his team does not fear any opponent, emphasizing that reaching the tournament was the result of hard work last season, and they have the desire to continue developing and delivering high levels.
He added that the tournament includes the top four teams from last season, except for Al-Hilal, which did not participate, stressing that his team's preparations were not affected by either the match against Al-Ahli or facing Al-Hilal, but he believed that Al-Hilal's withdrawal warranted Qadsia's direct presence in the final.
Regarding Al-Ahli's participation instead of Al-Hilal, the Spanish coach stated that his focus is on preparing the team without delving into organizational decisions, noting that Qadsia's ambition is to replicate the achievement of 1995 when they were crowned champions in Hong Kong.
Gonzalez spoke about ambitions after the summer signings and the departure of striker Aubameyang, praising his contributions, confirming that the substitute Retegui will face a significant challenge to prove himself, pointing out that success in football does not solely depend on the amount spent but on the value of the group.
He concluded his remarks by emphasizing the strength of competition in Saudi Arabia, citing Al-Hilal's participation in the Club World Cup as evidence of significant development, while Belgian goalkeeper Castells expressed his happiness with the warm reception from the fans in Hong Kong, confirming that the players are eager to present an honorable image of the team.