The first round of QSL action comes to a close on Sunday evening when El Jaish takes on Al Wakrah at Lekhwiya stadium, KO 18:00.

El Jaish will be on a high following their progress to the AFC Champions League semifinals after defeating UAE side Al Nasr 4-0 on aggregate. Sabri Lamouchi’s side will be looking to press home advantage and start the QSL season with three points.

Jaish could hand a start to striker Abdulgadir Ilyas who has returned back to the soldiers following his loan stint at Al Khor was cancelled. Whilst marquee summer signing, Malian midfielder Seydou Keita may also be in line for his debut in the QSL.

As for the visitors Al Wakrah they have enjoyed a strong preseason under head coach Mauricio Larriera who is heading into his second season in charge of the Blue Waves. Larriera could indeed hand debuts to the South American attacking duo of Pablo Zeballos and Pablo Olivera, who have been signed to replace the goal scoring talents of Argentine striker Sasha, who left the club in the summer.

Having avoided relegation last season with weeks to spare, the pressure will be on Al Wakrah to get the best possible start in the league and have the potential to pull off a shock result against last season’s Qatar Cup winners.

It certainly promises to be an intriguing tie when El Jaish takes on Al Wakrah at Lekhiwya stadium, KO 18:00pm. You can buy tickets for the match here.