Al Duhail players opted against taking a break after their QSL match and started training for their upcoming Ooredoo Cup semi-final yesterday.
Al Duhail coach Hernan Crespo has said the team must continue the hardwork after regaining their top spot at the QNB Stars League (QSL).
The Red Knights defeated Qatar SC 3-1 after Michael Olunga’s brace on Saturday to restore a two-point lead against Al Arabi, who slipped to second with 37 points after completion of Round 17.
Crespo, who had limited choices due to absence of different players due to illness and injuries, expressed his delight with team’s resolve to stay on the top and bag maximum titles this season.
“The team played with intensity and good rhythm. Al Duhail are performing well despite missing several players due to injuries,” said Al Duhail coach.
Hernan Crespo
“The victory [against Qatar SC] boosted our morale for the upcoming matches and we will continue to work hard during this week to advance at all levels,” he added.
The Red Knights will now shift their focus to Ooredoo Cup semi-finals where they will face Al Sadd on March 23. The next round of the QSL will start on April 4.
Meanwhile, Al Arabi pose the biggest threat to Al Duhail in their quest to win the Falcon Shield as Younes Ali’s side defeated Al Sailiya 4-1 in their Week 17 clash on Friday to continue their winning streak.
While Al Duhail, who also have one game in hands, have a good chance of winning this edition, Al Arabi are hoping to turn the tables in the remaining fixtures.
“We did well against Al Sailiya but we must be consistent and continue performing well as the season is heading towards the decisive stage,” said Younes.
Reigning champions Al Sadd, who are third on the table with 32 points, defeated Al Shamal 3-1 to return to winning ways after being held by Al Duhail, who scored two stoppage time goals to earn a 2-2 draw in their in their postponed match from Week 10.
“I am very satisfied with the team’s performance against Al Shamal, given the timing of the match and what happened in the last game against Al Duhail. I am very satisfied with the team and what we achieved today in winning by three goals,” Al Sadd coach Juan Manuel Lillo had said after the win.
