Al Ahli coach Milan Macala spoke to the media ahead of their QNB Stars League Week 3 match against Umm Salal.

“We had normal training during the week. We are prepared to face Umm Salal. They are strong opponents. Two games are not enough to assess the overall quality of the QNB Stars League.

“New players have arrived and you cannot predict the quality of the league two months down the line.

“I am very disappointed that we always have problems with players’ injuries and suspensions. We will continue to miss Iranian professional player Mohammed Reza. And Khalil cannot play against Umm Salal because of his red card in the last match. Thank God, he got only one-game suspension. But I am feeling good with this side.

“We expect tough opposition from Umm Salal. They lost the first game very narrowly and put up a strong display against Al Rayyan in the second week.

“I am also worried about losing many of our players due to national duty in the coming months.

“Al Sadd and Al Duhail are at a different level in the competition. We must find a system to restrict their goal-scoring spree. Four other teams, including us, are in another race – to be in the top four,” said Macala.