Alkass English
The Qatar Stars League (QSL) resumes tomorrow after a break of more than a month, with table-toppers Al Gharafa aiming to extend their impressive run when they face bottom-placed Al Shahania at Al Khor Stadium.
Pedro Martins’ side went into the pause with a four-point cushion at the summit, a stoppage caused by Qatar’s hosting of the FIFA Arab Cup and the FIFA Intercontinental Cup. The reigning Amir Cup champions return in confident mood after a vital AFC Champions League victory over UAE side Al Wahda just three days ago.
While Al Gharafa start as clear favourites, Al Shahania will be desperate for a change in fortunes, having collected only four points so far this season.
Second-placed Al Shamal, on 21 points, will look to keep pace with the leaders when they host defending champions Al Sadd on Monday. Al Sadd arrive boosted by a dramatic 4-2 comeback win over Shabab Al Ahli in the AFC Champions League Elite, inspired by Rafa Mujica’s late hat-trick. Currently fourth with 17 points, the Wolves are keen to carry that momentum into domestic competition.
Elsewhere, third-placed Al Rayyan (19 points) take on Al Arabi at Al Thumama Stadium on Sunday. Al Arabi sit sixth with 16 points, promising a closely contested encounter.
One of Round 11’s standout fixtures also takes place on Sunday as Qatar SC host Al Duhail at Abdullah Bin Khalifa Stadium. After a strong start to the season, Qatar SC have slipped to fifth with 17 points, while the Red Knights are eighth on 12 points and searching for a revival.
The round continues with Al Sailiya facing Al Wakrah on Sunday at the Grand Hamad Stadium. Al Sailiya are 10th with seven points, while Al Wakrah occupy seventh place with 15 points as both sides look for a positive restart.
QSL Round 11 Fixtures
Tomorrow
* Al Shahania vs Al Gharafa – Al Khor Stadium (5:30pm)
Sunday
* Al Sailiya vs Al Wakrah – Grand Hamad Stadium (5:30pm)
* Al Duhail vs Qatar SC – Abdullah Bin Khalifa Stadium (5:30pm)
* Al Arabi vs Al Rayyan – Al Thumama Stadium (7:30pm)
Monday
* Al Shamal vs Al Sadd – Al Shamal Sports Club (5:30pm)
* Al Ahli vs Umm Salal – Al Thumama Stadium (7:30pm)