Jorge warns Al Rayyan against mistakes in high-stakes clash with Shabab Al Ahli

Doha, Qatar: The highly anticipated Qatar UAE Super Cup kicks off today as Al Rayyan and Shabab Al Ahli square off for the coveted Challenge Shield ti...

Doha, Qatar: The highly anticipated Qatar-UAE Super Cup kicks off today as Al Rayyan and Shabab Al Ahli square off for the coveted Challenge Shield title at Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium.

Al Rayyan secured their place in this high-stakes showdown by finishing second in the Qatar Stars League last season and will aim to claim the first silverware of the season on home turf.

New coach Artur Jorge is seeking his second consecutive win after a resounding 6-2 victory over Umm Salal in the league on Friday. However, the Portuguese tactician is well aware of the tough challenge his team faces against Shabab Al Ahli, led by his compatriot Paulo Sousa.

“I know Shabab Al Ahli well; they have quality players and I’m familiar with their coach Paulo Sousa. It’s an important and difficult match that leaves no room for mistakes,” Jorge said at a pre-match press conference yesterday.

“This tournament presents a great challenge and a huge responsibility for both the players and the coaching staff. It’s my first title match with Al Rayyan and it’s extremely important. My goal with the club is to win one of the Cups this season and finish in the top three of the league,” said Jorge, whose team climbed to fifth place in the Qatari top flight after their win over Umm Salal.