Despite dropping points, Sanchez said he was proud that his players were able to match a strong Al Wasl, with the result maintaining Al Sadd’s unbeaten run and taking them to eight points at the halfway stage of the competition.

“We played against a good, organised team. We deserved to win and I am pleased with my team’s performance. We earned an important point in our Champions League journey,” said Sanchez. 

“We tried hard throughout the match and posed a clear offensive threat, but luck prevented us from scoring more goals. This is our second draw of the tournament, bringing us to eight points. Every match in the tournament is a significant challenge, and we will continue working hard for the upcoming games.”

The top eight teams will advance to the knockout stage and Al Sadd, having failed to do so in their last three continental campaigns, are well placed for a spot in the Round of 16. 

“We are on the right path towards qualification, which is the most important thing for us at this stage. As I mentioned, we will keep pushing forward and working hard for the upcoming matches.”

Al Sadd face a huge challenge on Matchday Five, with the 2011 AFC Champions League™ winners to play Al Hilal SFC on November 26, with the Saudi Arabian side in a rich vein of form with four straight wins.