Xavi moving closer to Asian title

Madrid: Spanish legend Xavi Hernandez can take a significant step on Monday towards becoming the first player to win both the UEFA Champions League and its Asian equivalent. After four continental titles with Barcelona, the midfielder has one foot in the semifinal of the Asian Champions League with Al Sadd, the club he joined in 2015. The Qatari powerhouse won its quarterfinal first leg at the Iranian home of Esteghlal 3-1 in August and is ready for the return match in Doha. “I think we can compete with the rest of the teams in Asia for the AFC Champions League title.” Xavi said. Al Sadd, champion in 2011, did the hard work in the first leg at Tehran’s famous Azadi Stadium and just needs to avoid defeat at home to progress. AP