Wolves on track for top four finish
Al Sadd will head into Monday’s game against Al Gharafa full of confidence after back-to-back wins in the QSL.
 
The Wolves beat Al Arabi 3-1 in week 20 to retain their place in the top four and claim two wins on the spin for the first time since November.
 
Victory over Arabi confirmed that Jesualdo Ferreira is finally making an impact at Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium. The Portuguese has endured a difficult start to his Sadd career and – a Qatar Classico victory apart – has failed to live up to expectations until the last two weeks. Ferreira’s task now is to deliver some silverware and ensure his side qualifies for the AFC Champions League.
 
Gharafa on the other hand were involved in one of the matches of the season last time out. The Cheetahs twice fought back from two goals down to grab a 4-4 draw with Umm Salal and keep their top four hopes – however slim – still alive.
 
New signings Krisztian Nemeth and Vladimir Weiss have added a fresh attacking dimension in recent weeks to a squad which was tipped by many to have a strong chance of finishing in the top four at the start of the season. It appears the constant chopping and changing – of both the managerial and playing staff – has had a negative impact on Gharafa in recent months. However, a settled squad now could pave the way for a strong season in 2016/17.
 
The nine-point gap between Gharafa and Sadd is likely to prove a bridge too far for Pedro Caixinha’s men. They are, in fact, closer to the relegation zone than the top four. However, while Qatar Cup qualification remains mathematically possible, you can guarantee Gharafa will fight tooth and nail to grab a spot in the upper echelons of the QSL.
 
Sadd will be the favourites for this one, but Gharafa’s new-look forward line will undoubtedly cause the Wolves plenty of problems. Expect another end-to-end game in the QSL.