Old rivals renew acquaintances in round seven match-up

Al Gharafa will take on Al Arabi on Saturday evening knowing that a victory can push them back into the top four shake up. The Cheetahs have endured a slow start to the QSL season this term, but are now finding their form, and are undefeated in four QSL games.

Last time out, Pedro Caixina’s side registered a 2-0 win over a struggling Al Wakrah side which propelled them to seventh place in the league. Goals from Krisztián Németh and Vladimir Weiss secured the points in what was a first win in three QSL games for Gharafa.

One player who has grown in confidence this season has been goalkeeper Yousef Hassan who has started all of Gharafa’s games this season. The youngster’s performances caught the attention of the Qatar U23 team, and a starting place against Oman on Tuesday evening would have boosted the 20 year old keeper no end. Caixina will be hoping Hassan can build on his first clean sheet of the season against Al Arabi.



 As for Al Arabi, they have confirmed their new head coach as Edison Aguirre over the international break. The Brazilian tactician is no stranger to the Al Arabi set up, having coached a host of youth sides with the club. Aguirre will now be changed to revive the fortunes of the Dream Team who have endured a torrid start to the season.

Last time out, Al Arabi fell to a last-gasp defeat to newly promoted Muaither 2-1. A deflected Mustapha Sall goal gave Muaither the win, in what was a low point for the side. Arabi are currently sitting in tenth place in the QSL standings, and have only one win from their last five games.

With the Dream Team struggling for confidence they will be turning to the experience of Chilean midfielder Luis Jiminez to stop the rot. The summer accusation from Al Ahli Dubai has only played twice for his side following registration issues and the veteran midfielder will be eager to make up for lost time.  Jimenez’s know how will be vital if Arabi are to get back to winning ways and pull their way up the QSL standings.

Saturday’s 18:10 KO at Al Gharafa stadium is certainly going to be an interesting match-up of two sides that have top four ambitions. You can pick up tickets for the match here.