Al Arabi’s Michael Olunga takes part in team’s training session.
DOHA: Al Arabi will look to prove their victory over Al Sadd was no one-off when they face Al Shahania in the Qatar Stars League today, while Al Ahli and Al Wakrah aim to build on their own wins as Week 6 gets underway.
Al Arabi ended Al Sadd’s perfect start to the season with a 3-2 victory last week, handing the defending champions their first defeat after four successive wins. The result lifted Al Arabi to fourth place with nine points, level with third-placed Al Duhail.
Coach Cosmin Contra, however, is keen to ensure his players remain focused on the task ahead rather than dwell on their impressive result.
“The coaching staff and players have moved past our recent victory over Al Sadd, with their focus now entirely shifted toward preparations for the next challenge,” Contra said.
“League matches demand consistent tactical and mental discipline. Al Shahania are well-organised defensively and possess a squad of capable players, which necessitates maximum effort, composure and the clinical conversion of scoring opportunities.”
Al Shahania also arrive with confidence after beating Lusail. Seventh with seven points, they will look to make another move up the standings when the teams meet at Khalifa International Stadium at 7:45pm.
Coach Younes Ali acknowledged the quality of the opposition but believes his players can deliver a strong performance.
“It is difficult facing Al Arabi, a well-organised side with significant experience and players capable of making a decisive impact. Our focus remains on our own performance and style of play on the pitch,” he said.
Earlier, Al Ahli face Al Wakrah at Al Thumama Stadium at 5:30pm, with both sides seeking consecutive victories.
Al Ahli climbed to sixth with seven points after a commanding 5-0 win over Al Sailiya, while Al Wakrah moved to ninth with five points following their victory over Al Gharafa.
Al Ahli coach Borja Jimenez expects a demanding contest against opponents he rates highly for their tactical organisation and individual quality.
“The match will not be easy. I am well aware of the high level Al Wakrah displayed in their previous round, a match they won, and we will approach the game with full concentration to secure a victory,” he said.
Al Wakrah coach Jose Luis Sierra said his side had prepared thoroughly for the challenge.
“We are well aware that we are facing tough opponents with quality players across all positions. They also secured an impressive result in their last match and are looking to keep their own winning momentum going,” he said.
Sunday brings two major clashes as second-placed Al Sadd, on 12 points, meet third-placed Al Duhail, who have nine, in a contest that could reshape the top end of the table.
Leaders Al Rayyan, with 13 points, face Al Gharafa later in the day.
Al Gharafa are 10th with four points after losing to Al Wakrah and will be eager to respond.
Tomorrow’s meeting between fifth-placed Al Shamal, on eight points, and Lusail, who have five, adds another important contest to a round that could further tighten the standings. Earlier, Qatar SC and Al Sailiya face off in bottom-of-the-table clash.
