Al Sadd Forward Gabi Fully Ready for Persepolis Match
TEHRAN (Tasnim) - Former Atletico Madrid star Gabi is looking forward to helping new side Al Sadd overcome Persepolis and reach the final of the AFC Champions League for the first time since 2011.
The former Atletico Madrid captain signed for Al Sadd in the summer and made his AFC Champions League debut in the quarter-final clash with Esteghlal.
After a 3-1 win in the first leg in Tehran, the Qatari side held off Esteghlal's challenge and drew 2-2 in Doha to secure a spot in the semi-final.
Gabi played a key role in the win over Esteghlal and is now looking ahead of taking on another Iranian giant, Persepolis, in the last four. Speaking ahead of the first leg of the semi-final in Doha, the Spanish midfielder emphasized his team's readiness.
"All the players are fully motivated and have the desire to realize our dream of reaching the final," he told the-afc. "This match is important not just for Al Sadd but for the country as well. We are ready and raring to go.
"As experienced players, we always convey what we have gained over the years to the youngsters. We try to inculcate the mentality to go for the win.
"While I was at Atletico Madrid, I always played for the win and wanted to win trophies. It's the same at Al Sadd and we are all prepared to achieve that," he concluded.
