Second placed Lekhwiya take on Al Shahania on Wednesday evening, the Red Knights are undefeated this season in the QSL and will be aiming for a win to place pressure on league leaders Al Sadd. Head coach Djamel Belmadi gave his thoughts to the local press ahead of the game. 

Opening up the press conference the Algerian coach stressed that only a win would do for his title chasing side. “It’s the last game of the first round, for us against Al Shahania we want to win the game before the break.”

“Yeah I am satisfied, we are undefeated in the league we have won the Sheikh Jassim cup and drawn three times in the league. Looking back we could have perhaps only two games based on our performance” noted the former Qatar national team boss at the Tuesday morning press conference. 

Belmadi also revealed that he has been impressed by his opponents, but insisted it will be a tough challenge as ever for his Lekhwiya side. “ Al Shahania have not surprised me, they are going well. It will be a difficult game, it has been shown in recent games . It is now up to us to show we have the quality to take all three points.

Al Shahania head into their match up with Lekhiwya off the back of a 2-2 draw with Al Khor. The Oryxes will be aiming to upset the four time QSL champions on Wednesday evening. 

Opening up the press conference, Shahania head coach Jose Fernando stressed his side are looking for a result. “Lekhwiya are a strong team with good players, but nothing is impossible in football we head into the last game for this part of the season, looking for a positive result.”

Al Shahania are fast gaining a reputation of the draw specialists in the QSL this season, however Fernando was eager to stress that he is always aiming for three points with his side. “One point is important for us, in the QSL this season one point in game is key to helping us survive. That said, I always aim with my side to go for the win.”

The Portuguese coach also stressed that his is pleased with the fighting spirit of his side. “We have a good group, and we work hard for each other. Every member of the squad train at their best all the time, that shows our determination and spirit. In this moment, I am very, very happy with my side.”

Fernando ended the press conference noting that he is expecting a tough second half of the season for the Oryxes. “The second leg the competition for relegation will continue. I expect my side to battle with the other clubs for relegation.”