Doha: Al Shahania coach Jose Murcia affirmed his team's readiness to face Al Shamal tomorrow at Al Bayt Stadium, in week 19 of the Ooredoo Stars League. In a press conference preceding the match, Murcia stated, "We took advantage of the long break to prepare for this important match against Al-Shamal. It will be a direct game between two teams with similar positions and similar goals. Both teams are similar and each team is striving to win, so we will do everything we can to secure the three points."
According to Qatar News Agency, Murcia emphasized the significance of the upcoming match, describing it as the most important of the season. He expressed confidence in his players' readiness and stressed the importance of maintaining focus and following instructions to achieve victory. Despite absences including Muniesa, Francesco, and Ali Al Amri, Murcia noted the recovery of international players such as Alhassan Koroma, Shehab Ellethi, and Moaz Al Wadia.
On the other side, Al-Shamal coach David Prats acknowledged the challenge posed by Al Shahania, recognizing them as a distinguished opponent with outstanding players. Prats emphasized the need for caution in the upcoming match, stating, "Al Shamal are also a great team with top-level players who are determined and highly capable. Therefore, we are looking forward to winning and collecting the three points to secure the best possible position at the end of the league."
Prats concluded by highlighting the difficulty of the task ahead, emphasizing the need for realism in facing a competitor like Al Shahania, who has delivered notable performances against leading teams. He expressed hope for a satisfying result, noting that his team has prepared well for the match.
Al-Shamal currently stands in sixth place with 23 points, trailing Al Rayyan by 4 points and Al Ahli by 6 points. Al Shahania is in seventh place with the same number of points, but behind Al-Shamal on goal difference.