Ahead of their 2019-20 QNB Stars League Week 2 match against Al Arabi, scheduled for Thursday, 29th August, Al Duhail player Ali Afif spoke to QSL website (qsl.qa) in an exclusive interview.

Ali mainly spoke about his expectations, Al Duhail’s start to the new season, challenges and ambitions.

The attacking midfielder described their 2-1 comeback victory against Qatar SC in Week 1 as an important one despite the fact that it was a difficult game.

“We got important three points. The league is long and it’s important to keep collecting points. Psychologically, we needed a strong start and a win, especially after we exited from the AFC Champions League and lost the Sheikh Jassim Cup. Thank God, we’re back on the winning path. In football, victory gives good feeling,” said Ali.

He pointed out the fact that Al Duhail played some games without key players and the return of some of them in the next game would be a strong motivation to perform better and also vital for the team’s balance.

On the Al Arabi match, Ali said, “This game is very important for us. Going by their performance in the opening round, we’re sure it’s a strong team and they proved it in their 3-1 victory over Al Ahli. We’ll stay focused and make all efforts to achieve our target. Each team has strengths and weaknesses, we’ll certainly work on our opponents’ weaknesses and try to get full points.

“I’m very optimistic about future. We respect all teams. We’ll play with determination to achieve victory as happened in our previous game against Qatar SC.

“There’s nothing wrong with our team as we’ve won the last game and we were strong contenders in the AFC Champions League and Sheikh Jassim Cup. But perhaps, the fans are used to see Al Duhail win in most games,” he said.

About their target and whether Al Duhail can regain the league title, he said, “We’re certainly able to return with our full force and determination, the team has great potential and is able to overcome any obstacles or losses.

“We promise our fans that we’ll do our best to achieve good results. It’s certain that the league competition is demanding. Our path won’t be easy. We must continue to work hard and make more efforts to fulfil our fans’ and team management’s ambitions.”

Ali wished large crowd would attend the match between Al Duhail and Al Arabi.

“A big part of excitement in football is the fans’ presence at stadiums. We hope to see that this time too,” he concluded.