Fathi relishing derby day clash with Al Ahli

Al Arabi take on Al Arabi in a derby clash on Friday evening, in what promises to be a early indicator of Al Arabi’s top four ambitions. QSL online spoke with Al Arabi midfielder Ahmed Fathi, to get his thoughts on the match.

Opening up the conversation, Fathi stressed that the Friday evening clash at Al Arabi stadium will not be easy for The Dream Team. “Our matches versus Al Ahli are always considered tough games, it’s a derby afterall. They will be looking to win again after drawing with Al Wakrh in the last round.”

Al Arabi have enjoyed some good early season form, and Fathi believes that will be crucial for his side; If they are to pick up the win. “We have played well in our recent games, and improved each time. If we play with the same determination, I think that we can get a good result against Al Ahli.”



“Both teams have fantastic players, Ahli and Firmin Muble and Meshal Abdullah who can change the game at any moment, if my side is able to keep them quiet we have a real chance of getting the win” claimed Fathi when asked about key players in the Al Ahli setup.

Fathi was also eager to talk up his team mates ahead of the big game. “Al Arabi have every chance to win the game, we have quality all over the pitch now. Players like Paulinho, Luis Jimenez and Ahmad Khalfan can help us.”

“We are currently in fourth place in the league and that is our target for this season. We are taking it step by step, and it will be hard with the quality that we have in the QSL” explained Al Arabi’s dynamic midfielder when asked about his goals with the club.

Fathi has been with Al Arabi a number of seasons now and noted that the club has had a different atmosphere this season. “You can see that the club has brought in my good players from Qatar and abroad to improve the side. You can feel that it training, everyone is focused on our goals to win trophies for Al Arabi football club.”

Ending the conversation, Fathi stressed the side is working hard to meet the expectations of the Al Arabi fans. “We are trying every day to return this club to where it belongs, we have a strong squad who know what is needed to win. We need the support of the fans to do this.”

Can Fathi and his Al Arabi side inspire the Dream Team to a derby day win over Al Ahli? You can buy tickets for the match here.