Al Qadsiah’s Rodgers relishes top-of-the-table test against Al Hilal

Brendan Rodgers says Al Qadsiah are ready to measure their progress against Al Hilal when the Saudi Pro League leaders meet the reigning Saudi giants on Friday.

Al Qadsiah go into the 11th round of the competition at the top of the table with 25 points, one ahead of second-placed Al Hilal, who have a game in hand.

The Irish manager praised the work carried out at the club over the past two years and said his players were looking forward to the challenge despite the demanding conditions.

“We are eagerly anticipating the match and are excited about it,” Rodgers said at his news conference on Thursday. “We are playing in an extremely hot region, but the mentality of the players has been an important factor.”

“Al Hilal are the best team we have faced, but they also understand how strong our team is. Neither side has had a long period of rest.”

Rodgers said Al Qadsiah would not be intimidated by their opponents, while acknowledging the quality available to Al Hilal.

“We fear no-one, but we recognise the quality of Al Hilal and the players they have, such as Watkins and Summerville,” he added.

Both teams have had little time to recover before Friday’s fixture, but Rodgers believes the professionalism of his squad and the work of the medical staff have helped them cope with the congested schedule.

“We are dealing with the matches very well,” he said. “It is normal for the recovery period to be short, but the professionalism of the players and the efforts of the medical team help us manage the pressure of the games with great efficiency.”

‘Every match is an opportunity’

Rodgers insisted the schedule was not creating additional pressure for his side and said each fixture represented a chance to collect a positive result.

“Every match is an opportunity for us, and there is no pressure affecting us,” he said. “Instead, we look at every game as an opportunity to achieve a good result.”

He also highlighted the scale of Al Qadsiah’s rise. The club were in the first division two years ago, but now sit at the summit after 10 matches.

“It is well known which the big teams in Saudi Arabia are, but Al Qadsiah were in the first division two years ago,” Rodgers said. “The amount of work we have completed during those two years is clear to everyone.

“After 10 matches, we are now at the top. Whatever the result of tomorrow’s match, we will continue working and we are extremely excited.”

Rodgers said the quality throughout the league meant Al Qadsiah would face talented players in every game. Against Al Hilal, he added, his team’s organisation and intensity would be decisive.

“I believe every match you play in this league brings you up against teams with outstanding players, and Al Hilal have players at the highest level,” he said. “But it depends on our team. We must be organised and press strongly.”