On a day when Al Duhail lifted their QNB Stars League title, Meshal Abdullah played his last top-flight football game, saying goodbye to a long career that lasted for over two decades. The 36-year-old Meshal brought the curtain down to his career sporting Al Wakrah jersey in their match against Al Rayyan on Friday, ending an era of brilliance and achievements. Starting his career in 1999 with Al Ahli, the former Qatari star played over 300 games in club football besides representing Al Anabi in 43 matches.
“The decision to retire was one of the most difficult decisions of my life,” Meshal said in an interview. “It is tough to leave football after playing for so many years but this stage comes in the life of every player,” he added. Meshal was given a warm farewell in his last match by Al Wakrah and Al Rayyan players besides fans who attended the crucial game.
“The support from everybody present there made me proud. I had a mixed feeling of sadness and pride while playing my last game. The love of people who wished me on the ground and on social media through their posts made me happy. It was a wonderful feeling when fans chanted my name,” he added. Meshal had three stints with Al Ahli while he also represented Al Gharafa, Al Sailiya, Qatar SS and Al Wakrah during his stay for 21 seasons in the Qatari football.
“During my service with all the clubs, my goal was to bring an added value to that side and take my team on top with hardwork. I am thankful to all those who supported me throughout my career,” said Meshal. He added that he will continue to be a part of the football set-up in the country but expressed his reluctance in joining the coaching career. “I am looking to work in analytical or administrative field for one of the clubs. I hope that I will succeed and help the club in whatever role I take,” he said.
Meshal hoped Qatar will deliver a good performance at the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 after their Asian Cup triumph due to the presence of exceptional talent. “I am confident the national team will show a good performance because of talented young players. It will be a historic event for us as the World Cup will come to the region for the first time. I am hopeful that team Qatar will achieve good results,” he said before advising upcoming players to never leave the hardwork. “ Commitment and perseverance are must in anybody’s career. The youngsters should set a goal for themselves as they cannot achieve something without setting a goal,” he said
