Abel Mathias Hernandez led the charge with two goals as Al Ahli bounced back into the 2019-20 QNB Stars League with an impressive 3-0 win over Al Sailiya in Week 2.

The striker, who has a wealth of experience playing for clubs in his native Uruguay, Italy, England and Russia besides his national team, spoke to Qatar Stars League in an Exclusive Interview.

What difference do you find in your career in your first stint in Qatar?

The truth is that there isn’t much of a difference. Perhaps, there’s a little more space to play compared to Russian and Italian football, and the intensity is a little less than that of English football. But still, I see that it’s a very competitive championship with great teams.

What made you join Al Ahli in Qatar?

The desire that the club can count on me. I was looking for a club that would give me the chance to play all games, trusted me and gives me the opportunity to return to my real level of playing.

How’s like representing Al Ahli, the oldest club in Qatar?

It’s a pride to represent the oldest club in Qatar, a team with history where great players played.

Al Ahli made a strong comeback, beating Al Sailiya, after losing to Al Arabi in Week 1?

The whole team feels better. We need time because we’ve many new players, but we’re working very well during the week. The players are getting to know each other more. It was demonstrated against Al Sailiya, but we still have many things to improve.

How well did you feel after your two-goal performance against Al Sailiya?

It was a good display by the whole team and that helped me score two goals. I think more of scoring goals. I’m not yet in the best of my physical condition, but I’m trying to improve week after week.

Are the players, foreign professionals and nationals, gelling well this season?

In my opinion, we’ve a great team. Overseas players are of a high level, they’ve played in the best leagues in Europe. At the same time, our Qatari counterparts are also exhibiting a great level. I think we complement each other very well, but as I told you, the team will improve further with time.

What’re your goals with Al Ahli this season?

My goal is to be able to play as many matches as possible and help the team achieve our main objective – qualifying for the AFC Champions League. Of course, as a striker I hope to score goals, which is my job.

How do you expect to contribute to the team’s cause?

As I said before, with a lot of work, I hope to achieve my goals too.

What’s your take on the QNB Stars League?

From what I’ve seen, it’s a very competitive league. Maybe, Al Sadd are currently a little above the rest of the teams, but I think their superiority isn’t going to be so much as weeks pass by.

What’s your take on coach Ruben de la Barrera’s style of functioning?

I think it favours me a lot, because if strikers get the ball more, they’ve more options to score. I think this style of football throughout the championship is going to be beneficial for us.