Al Ahli midfielder Ali Qadri is one of the most prominent youngsters in the QNB Stars League. He is also a player who shows high team spirit, enthusiasm and determination on the field.

Ali contributed to Al Ahli’s 3-0 victory over Al Arabi in Week 9 of the QNB Stars League on Saturday by scoring the opening goal. He is an influential medio who mostly finds a place in the team’s starting line-up.

In an exclusive interview with QSL Online, Ali opens his mind on a wide range of topics. Excerpts:

How do you rate the team’s performance in the QNB Stars League so far?

I think our game improved after every match. In the beginning, the players took time to adapt to the conditions. Also, the new players needed time to gel well with the team.

Are you satisfied with the level and results achieved by the team?

We’re doing everything in our capacity in each game. We hope to storm into the top-four bracket and it isn’t easy. It’ll take time and more efforts have to be made. We can achieve what we look forward to.

In which position can Al Ahli finish this season?

As I said, we spare no effort in each game as we seek three points. We’re targeting a top-four finish.

What do Al Ahli need in order to keep pace with top teams?

With a little bit more of patience and confidence, we can beat any team in the league.

Will the victory over Al Arabi be a motivation for greater things?

This win will certainly push us forward and give us the motivation for greater things. But at the same time, we’ve to build on this win in our upcoming, tough games. I would like to stress that there’s no easy match in the QNB Stars League.

Did you expect that Al Ahli would beat Al Arabi?

I had expected we would win, but not by a big margin. We played a strong game and the players displayed good fighting spirit on the pitch.

Why did the team show inconsistency in terms of results?

In the last three weeks, our level and results have improved. And we’ve completed back-to-back victories, having beaten Al Shahania in Week 8.

Do you think the squad has to be strengthened in the January transfer window?

I’m not the one to decide on that. It’s up to the team management and coach. I’m a player and I focus on my job.

There was criticism that coach Milan Macala cannot bring Al Ahli a positive change and some had even demanded his dismissal…

Macala is a great coach who has a clear vision for the team.

What’s your assessment of the league competition and who do you think will win the shield?

I hope it’s going to be Al Ahli. The competition’s quality is high and all matches are tough.

How about your next game against Al Sadd in Week 10?

We must be prepared for difficult matches. We must perform at a higher level than we did against Al Arabi if we’ve to come out with flying colours.

Do you think Al Ahli can keep winning?

Nothing is impossible in football. We hope to keep winning and beat Al Sadd in our next game.

Which player has caught your attention the most in the QNB Stars League?

There’re a lot of outstanding players, but I rate Spanish star and Al Sadd captain Xavi Hernandez the most.