Al Wakrah coach Marquez Lopez spoke to the media ahead of their 2021-2022 season QNB Stars League Week 10 match against Al Shamal.

“The Ooredoo Cup has taken a break. I think it was a good tournament for us, we are in the first place in Group A and now we have to change the mentality and focus on the league which is more important. The preparation of the team in general was good and during the break the training was good. The players are good and I'm happy with that.

“After January, I will explain that if it (the long break) is good or not, but I see that there are seven matches until January third week. Our position before was good, and God willing, after these matches, we will see if the break was good or not.

“Of course, the team's morale is good because of the recent results, and I think the team is ready to return to the league,” said Marquez.

Al Wakrah goalkeeper Saoud Al Khater said, The match against Al Shamal will be difficult for both teams due to the desire of each team to collect the three points. But at the same time we have confidence in the capabilities of our players, which will help them overcome this obstacle.

“Al Shamal are very strong and have already played big matches. I hope that we will reap the three points so that it will be the best start for us after the league stopped. God willing, we will play this match in a good way.”