Al Sadd's players during a training session yesterday.
Doha: Group A leaders Al Sadd will be challenged by high-flying Umm Salal when the two teams meet in Round 3 of the 2022-2023 Ooredoo Cup at the Al Egla pitch 4 today. The kick-off is at 7.15 pm.
Al Sadd, having won both of their previous matches, are leading the pack with six points – same as Umm Salal. However, the Juan Manuel Lillo-coached Wolves have the edge over their opponents, having scored more goals (7 goals) while conceding none.
Al Sadd recorded a 4-0 win in the first round over Al Sailiya, and followed up with a 3-0 victory against Al Wakra in the next. On the other hand, Umm Salal defeated Al Ahli 2-1 and Qatar SC 3-1 in the first two rounds.
Despite the absence of a number of Qatar national team players, Al Sadd coach will have plenty of options at his disposal, including the returning duo of Ghanian Andre Ayew and South Korea’s Jung Woo-young.
The two players rejoined the club following their commitments with the respective national teams.
On the other hand, Umm Salal’s challenge will be led by their duo of Jonathan Kodjia and Sardor Rashidov.
Meanwhile, Al Ahli take on Qatar SC in another Group A match today. The kick-off is at 7.15pm at the Qatar University pitch 4.
Qatar SC are third with the same number of points while Al Ahli are one spot below them.
With both teams having won a match each in the previous rounds, the stage is set for a thrilling clash. Qatar SC won their opening-round match against Al Wakrah 3-1, but lost the second to Umm Salal 1-3.
Al Ahli lost their first match to Umm Salal 1-2, but beat Al Sailiya 3-2 in the second.
Also today, Al Wakrah face Al Sailiya in their third match of Group A, with the kick-off is at 7.15pm at the Al Ersal 2 pitch.
Both teams are winless in the tournament so far, and will be looking to improve their position in the group.
Having blanked by Al Sadd in their last encounter, Al Wakrah are placed at the bottom of the table, along with Al Sailiya who have a goal difference of -5.
Al Sailiya lost their last match against Al Ahli 2-3.
Both teams will be eager to restore their pride.
