Doha: Al Ahli and Al Sailiya, the two teams which have performed way beyond expectations this season, are hoping to put the icing on the cake by forcing the way into the final of the Emir Cup.
But the irony is that only one will be able to make it to the final as the two will clash in the semi-final of the season-ending tournament here today at Al Sadd Stadium.
Al Sailiya, who were retained in this year’s league after QSL management expanded the league from 12 to 14 teams finished fourth in the league, behind Al Sadd.
El Jaish came second while Lekhwiya won the.
Al Ahli on the other hand, won promotion to the top division of the league after they finished first, came sixth ahead of Umm Salal but behind Al Arabi.
“It’s a big surprise that we reached this stage (semi-finals) but I hope we will play very well. Having HH the Emir watching the final match will motivate my players to give their best to make it to the final of the cup. This is such an important tournament to everyone in the country and for us too at Al Ahli,” said coach Milan Macala, on the eve of the match.
“It’s been a long time since Al Ahli played in an Emir Cup semi-final. We’re very excited about it.
“Our preparation have beengood because we had a week to prepare and train for the match. The players are very positive,” he added.
His opposite number Sami Trabilsi said: “Thank God we have reached this stage which is considered an amazing thing for the team. I already think that the players have done a great job by reaching the semi-final. We wish to qualify to the final match. It won’t be easy but we will work very hard for it to reach the final stage.”
In the second semi-final, Al Sadd will take on Al Gharafa. The final will take place on May 17 at Khalifa Stadium.
The Peninsula
