Al Shamal face Al Ahli in Week 19 of the 2023-2024 season Expo Stars League at the Al Bayt Stadium on Friday, March 29, 2024. The kick-off is at 9.30pm.

Both teams are seeking to achieve victory and obtain the three valuable points. Al Ahli are currently in seventh place in the standings with 20 points, gained from six wins, two draws and nine losses, while Al Shamal are two places behind in the ninth place with 18 points with four wins, six draws and seven defeats.

The match is of great importance in view of the rankings of the two teams, as Al Shamal aim to steer clear of the danger zone and to advance in the rankings table, as only three points separate them from the fifth-placed Al Arabi.

Al Ahli’s Portuguese coach Pedro Miguel realizes the importance of the team continuing its strong performances as they have not lost in the last three matches since losing to Umm Salal 1-2 in the 15th round following a 1-1 draw with Muaither and in the next round beating Qatar SC 3-1. The 18th round saw Al Ahli score a creditable 1-1 draw against Al Arabi.

The team is counting on the excellent technical condition of its strong attack, which represents a great concern to all competitors, given the presence of Oumar Sekou, Yazan Al Naimat, Naim Al Sliti and Julian Draxler.

Meanwhile, Al Shamal are looking to regain the winning touch after their 1-3 loss to Al Duhail in the previous round. The club management has renewed the contract of coach Poya Asbhagi after his success in creating a distinctive form for the Al Shamal team this season.

The match in a way would be worth six points for Al Shamal for if they win, the side will be able to move forward in the standings given the small difference in points between a number of competing clubs.

The contest between Al Shamal and Al Ahli is expected to produce great excitement, given the distinguished stars both teams have in all positions.