Al Arabi face Lekhwiya in the QSL match of the week on Friday evening at Grand Hamad stadium, knowing that a victory would further strengthen their Qatar cup aspirations.
Arabi head coach Gianfranco Zola spent most of the winter break working on his squad tactically and is hoping that his gamble, along with some astute signings will pay off for Arabi come the end of the season.
Al Arabi registered their first victory in four QSL matches in a pulsating 3-2 win over Al Gharafa, and will be looking to maintain their from when they welcome Lekhwiya on Friday night. Last weekend Al Arabi dominated their opponents for vast periods of the tie, only conceding two late goals.
New signing Alain Souza looked like an exciting addition to the squad, his pace and intelligent running will be needed if Arabi are to overturn Lekhwiya. The Brazilian will also be looking to build on his debut goal scored against Gharafa last time out. Whilst veteran Iranian Javad Nekounam added some much needed stability to the Arabi midfield.
For visitors Lekhwiya they will be looking to get back to winning ways after carelessly dropping points to Al Sailiya in round 17. Djamel Belmadi’s side had been on an eight game winning streak previously climing to second place in the QSL standings.
The Red Knights lost their composure against Sailiya with defender Mohammed Tresor being sent off in the 34th minute for two avoidable yellow cards. Despite being 10 men down, Lekhwiya did take a 2-1 lead in the tie, but failed to hold on allowing Faouzi Aaish to score a late winner in the 85th minute.
Lekhwiya could be without head coach Djamel Belmadi for the match, after he was sent to the stands after clashing with match officials. The side is awaiting the verdict of the QFA disciplinary board.
January’s QSL player of the month Youseff Msakni has been quiet in recent weeks, and will need to be at his brilliant best if Lekhwiya are to beat The Dream Team. It promises to be an interesting tie when a newly resurgent Al Arabi take on Lekhwiya in the round 18 QSL match of the week.
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