Umm Salal coach Mahmoud Jaber revealed that his side are expecting a tough test for their opening QNB Stars League clash on Friday evening when they take on Al Kharaitiyat in the second match of the season. 

“We have kept the majority of the side together from last season, and we have prepared well. I believe that this can give us an advantage against the sides who have changed many players this season” noted the Egyptian coach when asked about the state of the squad heading into the game.

Umm Salal finished an impressive sixth place last season, and Jaber insisted that is side are more than capable of repeating the feat. “We have strengthened in key areas this season and I believe we are well placed to do well. However we start against another side in Kharaitiyat who finished strongly in the league, so we must be careful in this first match. 

Summer signing Rami Fayez also revelaed that the whole squad is ready for a demanding league campaign. “Everyone at Umm Salal is mentally and physically prepared. I am expecting a tough match on Friday, and the squad certainly feels that we can make a impact this season.” 

Al Kharaitiyat will be looking to kick-start their QNB Stars League campaign with a statement victory over Umm Salal at Al Gharafa stadium on Friday evening. Ahead of the match, Thunders boss Ahmad Al-Ajlani spoke to the local media. 

Opening up the press conference the Tunisian coach noted he is expecting a close contest on Friday evening. “I believe that both sides are at a similar level heading into the game. It is important that we play with balance in this opening match, and I feel that we can give a strong preformance in this match.” 

The Thunders have struggled with relegation in recent years, and Al-Ajlani also revealed that he hopes that his side can turn their fortunes around starting against Umm Salal. “This year we are aiming to be comfortable in the league, that is why a strong start will be important for us this season.”

Whilst defender Mohammed Salem added that he is expecting this QNB Stars League season to be full of shock results. “With fewer teams in the league I think that every team will step up to avoid relegation, I certainly think that my team can shock a few sides this season.”