Berkane star Haddadi: “We will face Al Hilal with confidence and ambition”
RS Berkane defender Oussama Haddadi says the Moroccan club are approaching their TotalEnergies CAF Champions League quarter-final clash against Al Hilal Omdurman with confidence and determination as they prepare for one of the most important matches in their history.
The first leg of the tie will take place on Saturday, 14 March, as RS Berkane host the Sudanese giants in a match that marks the Moroccan side’s first-ever appearance in the quarter-finals of Africa’s premier club competition.
Haddadi emphasised that the team has been working with strong focus and discipline ahead of the encounter, highlighting the positive atmosphere within the squad as they aim to continue their impressive continental journey.
The Tunisian international believes tactical organisation and mental concentration will be decisive in a match against an opponent with vast experience in African competitions.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with CAFOnline.com, Haddadi discussed the team’s preparations, their ambitions in the competition and the importance of maintaining belief at this crucial stage.
CAFOnline.com: You will be facing Al Hilal of Sudan in the quarter-finals of the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League. How are your preparations going for this important match?
Oussama Haddadi:
Preparations are going well and there is a high level of concentration within the team because we know the importance of this stage. We are competing in the Moroccan league and the CAF Champions League at the same time, which requires us to be at our best physically and mentally. As players, we are determined to represent the club in the best possible way. We know the responsibility we carry and, God willing, we will do everything we can to represent our fans in the best way.
For the first time in the history of RS Berkane, you will be competing in the quarter-finals of the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League. How do you see your chances in this round?
It is true that reaching the quarter-finals of the CAF Champions League for the first time in the club’s history is already a significant achievement for RS Berkane. But as players we do not want to stop here. We want to continue progressing in the competition. We believe in our collective strength and in the quality of the group we have. We respect every opponent, but we will enter this match with confidence and ambition.
How should a match with an Arab flavour be approached against a club with experience like Al Hilal of Sudan?
Matches between Arab teams are always intense and competitive. Al Hilal is a very strong team with great experience in the CAF Champions League. Because of that we have to approach the game intelligently. It is important to stay patient and balanced throughout the match, because these types of games are often decided by small details.
What are the keys to victory in the match against Al Hilal?
Focus and tactical discipline will be essential. We must remain mentally present throughout the match and maintain the right balance between defence and attack. It will also be important to take advantage of the opportunities that come our way. Above all, we must maintain the fighting spirit and collective unity of the team.
Do you want to say anything else?
I would like to thank the supporters of RS Berkane for their continued support. Their encouragement means a lot to us as players. We promise that we will give everything on the pitch to make them proud and to honour the club, the city of Berkane and Moroccan football in this continental competition.