Doha Showdown: Al Shhaniah vs Rayyan and Al-Arabi vs Al-Ahli Set the Qatar Stars League Ablaze

Match Preview: Al Shhaniah vs Rayyan and Al-Arabi vs Al-Ahli

The seventh round of the Doha Bank Stars League closes on Sunday with two matches: Al Shhaniah hosting Rayyan at Al Khor Stadium, and Al-Arabi welcoming Al-Ahli at Al Thumama Stadium.

Rayyan sits fifth with 13 points, well ahead of Al Shhaniah who occupy the league’s 12th and last place. Al-Arabi are eighth on 10 points, just one point ahead of Al-Ahli, who lie in ninth.

Cosmin Contra, the Al-Arabi coach, said the aim is to maintain the positive run and capitalize on momentum from recent wins to secure the best possible result against Al-Ahli.

In the press conference, he added: “Al-Ahli is a well-organized team with balance across lines, and we are studying them carefully to prepare in the best possible way.”

Igor Biscan, the Croatian coach of Al-Ahli, stressed the importance of continuing their winning streak and not slipping back after a strong last round.

On the other side, Marwan Sharif Badir El Deen (a Shhaniah player) said the match against Rayyan is crucial and everyone is ready to give their best.

“We are ready to win and nothing else,” he stated, with teammates echoing confidence after a solid week of preparations.

Santi Denia, the Spanish coach of Al Shhaniah, said his side is prepared to face Rayyan after a week of excellent training, stressing that football and life demand hard work to reach goals. He reaffirmed trust in his players to deliver a strong performance and secure maximum points.

Omar Sico, Al-Ahli forward, highlighted the importance of the Arabi clash for their campaign, while teammate Aziz emphasized steady focus and concentration to clinch victory.

Meanwhile, Francisco Antonucci, another Shhaniah player, said the team is fully available and eager to perform at the highest level, aiming for a positive result and full points.

Joselo injury update: Al-Gharafa confirmed a Grade 3 hamstring injury for Joselo, ruling him out for about 6–8 weeks after the win over Qatar. The setback leaves Gharafa perched at the top with 22 points and shapes their upcoming schedule, including the November 21 visit of Al-Wakrah and the November 24 trip to Shabab Al-Ahli in the West Asia group stage of the AFC Champions League.

Next up, Joselo’s absence will be felt as Gharafa seek consistency at the summit while the rest of the league eyes the weekend’s key fixtures.