MANAMA: Following a 2-2 draw against UAE in their last group stage

match in the on-going GCC Futsal Championship, Qatar are ready to

pose a real threat in the semi-finals, said Futsal and Beach Football

DirectorAbdullah Al Saai said on Saturday.

Qatar are one of the five sides competing for honours at the March

10-19 event.

“We finished the group as leaders, this gives a reason to be optimistic

before delving into the semi-finals, the UAE has been one of the standout

sides in the tournament so far, so drawing them with a significantly different

line-up is an adequate outcome for us ” Al Saai said.

After securing a place in the semi-finals through a comprehensive win

over hosts Bahrain in the previous round, coach Michael Straaz opted

to rest a number of his key players to counter the eventful tournament’s

schedule.

“We have a fine mix of youth and experience. I think we have what it takes

to go all the way and emerge as winner when it’s all said and done,” he said.