Midfielder Younis Ali targets top 4 finish for Brigadiers.

Ahead of their upcoming match of the week, QSL online spoke with Al Ahli midfielder Younis Ali to get his thoughts on the upcoming clash with Al Gharafa.

Opening up our conversation, Ali believes that this could be the most competitive QSL campaign to date; “I think that the league will be a real challenge this year, every team has improved this term with new players. From what I can see most sides enjoyed a good preseason and come into the first round at their very best, which is a challenge especially when Al Ahli face Al Gharafa.”

Al Ahli’s late run victories pushed them all the way from relegation contenders to sixth place in the league, Ali is eager for his side to keep up their good form starting with Al Gharafa. “It’s true our form was impressive last season, we have to keep this up. I believe a continued good run will encourage the fans to get behind us and look to reach our goal.”

As for Al Ahli’s targets for the season ahead, Ali was clear what his side is targeting this term. “For Al Ahli we have to target the Qatar Cup places this season. We have been in fifth and sixth place the last few seasons, so it’s logical that this is our target.”

Focusing on the match ahead and Ali believes that the first match against Al Gharafa will be a stern test for Ahli. “Gharafa have some good technical players, I believe that they are also looking to get into the top four places this season so we must try our best to set down a marker with a strong result on Thursday evening.”

Closing off our conversation and the veteran midfielder praised the efforts of club management stressing that the side is ready for the challenges ahead. “I feel that the club has done well in bringing in good local talent, along with a new manager who knows the league well. Over the course of the season I believe our players and coach will come good and push Ahli into the top four places.”

Al Ahli takes on Al Gharafa in the QSL match of the week for round 1. The tie is set to kick off on Thursday the 15^th of September, 18:00 at Al Ahli stadium. You can buy tickets for the match here.