Fitness made the difference, says Morais after Al Wahda secure ACL last-16 spot

Al Wahda booked their spot in the Round of 16 of the AFC Champions League Elite 2025-26 after coming from behind to defeat Al Sadd 3-1 on Tuesday with Jose Morais highlighting the higher energy levels of his team as the reason for their success.

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An energetic second half was in sharp contrast to a subdued first 45 minutes with the UAE side overpowering their opponents through a brace from Dusan Tadic and one from Caio Canedo.

"The qualification was a consequence of what we intended to do," said Morais. "We intended to compete, do our best and get the three points so I'm happy for the players and the club.

"We wanted to control a little bit in the first half because we knew we were fitter because we had an additional day of rest compared to them but they are a good team with a good squad.

"Then in the second half, we increased the intensity a little to take advantage of the tiredness of Al Sadd. The team became more aggressive and we created more opportunities. We dominated completely and I'm happy with the three points."

Roberto Mancini's continental debut did not go as planned as Qatar's Al Sadd failed to hold on after going ahead through Claudinho's penalty in first half stoppage time.