Top of the table El Jaish take on Al Shahania on Sunday evening with a chance to build on their lead at the summit of the QSL standings. Head coach Sabri Lamouchi gave his thought to the local media ahead of the game. 

Opening up the press conference Lamouchi insisted that his side are ready for the Sunday afternoon match. "We worked on Shahania during the international break. We know it will be a hard game, and we are fully prepared for them."

"For me Al Shahania is a challenge. We respect Al Shahania we have to play against all teams with the same mentality and the same determination to win." explained the French coach when asked if this would be an easy tie for his side. 

El Jaish only had a few players on internatiaonal duty, Lamouchi admitted that this can only benefit his table topping side. "It’s good for our players to play with the national team, but this time we worked with nearly a full group. Only a few players will return from international duty and that will help us." 

The French coach was asked about the upcoming match up between Lekwiya and Al Rayyan, however Lamouchi insists he is only focusing on our game. “We are only looking at our performances, if we want to stay in first place we have to improve defensively especially without the ball." 

Ending the press conference Lamouchi stressed he is happy with his side, despite conceding goals this season."I am not happy with the defence but we have scored more this season and we are in first place. We will find a solution to resolve this problem in our side. 

As for Al Shahahia they headed into the international break off the back of a 4-0 humbling by Al Sadd, head coach Jose Fernando gave his thoughts to the local media ahead of the game. 

Opening up the press conference Fernando stressed it was business as usual for Al Shahania over the stoppage of QSL action. "We worked normally during the international break. At this moment, everyone is ready for the match up against El Jaish."

"I know that Jaish are a strong team with a good manager. However Al Shahania will go into the match looking for a positive result” remarked the Portuguese tactician on the Thursday morning press conference. 

Fernando have been with the group for three years, and the tactician admitted that this can only benefit his side. "This is an advantage and I know my players very well. I also know the mentality and the teams in the QSL well. Which can only benefit myself and Al Shahania. I want to give everything to the players to achieve the best possible results." 

Fernando ended his press conference remarking on the confidence of his Al Shahania side. "In football, it’s all about the correct mentality and confidence. This confidence can make you play better, and influence the whole side I am happy that we are playing with this confidence in this moment."