Doha: Umm Salal will take on relegated Al Markhiya targeting a big victory as they hope to finish on fourth spot after the final round of QNB Stars League which begins tomorrow.
Umm Salal are tied with Al Gharafa with both the teams have 32 points each but the latter are currently fourth on a better goal difference (+6 compared to Umm Salal’s -1). A fourth finish will ensure a place for either of two teams in the Qatar Cup.
“Against Al Markhiya, we have to play well and then wait for the result of the match between Al Gharafa and Qatar SC to see whether we will finish in the fourth position in standings. Playing in the Qatar Cup is the bonus.
That is the target of the entire squad,” said Umm Salal coach Talal El Karkouri.
“We played a friendly match against Qatar SC during the break and gave opportunity to all players, especially youngsters, so that the entire squad is ready to take on Al Markhiya in this important fixture. I have prepared my boys in a good way.
“We are at the end of the season and we gave special focus on the players’ fitness levels, so they stay in good shape till the very end. That is very important,” he added.
Al Markhiya coach Adel Sellimi said his team was hoping for a strong finish to the QSL season.
“We are hoping to present a strong game to restore our reputation even though we were relegated. The ambition of players as well as mine is to acquire the three points,” he said.
“We are seeking to perform well with high spirit and discipline to end the season with a victory. We are aware of the competition between Umm Salal and Al Gharafa for the fourth position and we will enter the game with full sportsmanship,” he added.
“Umm Salal are a good team with positive results. They have a professional management, good players and quality technical staff headed by Talal El Karkouri, who has added value to the team ever since he took charge,” said Sellimi.
Al Markhiya player Said Al Hajj, “We seek to win against Umm Salal because simply the league is not over yet and we still have one last game. We are always thinking about our team and not opponents, but we do respect Umm Salal. We are not worried about any striker in Umm Salal as we have a strong defence and I have faith in my team-mates.”
