Al Wakrah players during a training session.
Doha: Al Wakrah are keen to maintain their impressive run at the QNB Stars League (QSL), with coach Marquez Lopez urging his players to remain focused ahead of their Week 5 clash against Al Markhiya.
The Blue Waves, who earned a commendable third position last season, are second on the table with 10 points from three wins and a draw.
They trail leaders Al Arabi, who won all their four matches so far, by two points.
Satisfied with his team’s near-perfect run, Lopez said the players must maintain the “current mentality” to continue achieving positive results in the league.
“The match will be difficult for both the teams and I hope that we will be successful and be able to continue the series of positive results,” the Spaniard said ahead of today’s match at the Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium.
“We realise that this goal will only be achieved by showing the highest levels of focus throughout the course of the match,” he added.
The coach also praised fans for their support for Al Wakrah.
“I am happy with the good role played by our fans and I hope that this support will continue because it is very important for the team and for the future of the club,” said Lopez.
Al Markhiya started the season well by shocking defending champions Al Sadd in their opening but a dip in performance saw them losing two matches besides drawing one game.
Coach Abdullah Mubarak said his team is capable of earning good result against Al Wakrah, who he termed a clinical side.
“Al Wakrah are one of the best teams in terms of level and results. They are a team that has good harmony since last season and have players with high capabilities who are good at individual solutions and scoring goals,” Al Markhiya coach said ahead of the match.
“What distinguishes Al Wakrah the most is that they excel in all departments of the game, so we need to be at the top of our focus in terms of organising the team."
"We must also focus on the weaknesses of our opponents and put pressure on them,” he added.
Meanwhile, Qatar SC will clash with Al Shamal in today’s second match, with both teams seeking maximum points at Al Janoub Stadium.
Both the teams suffered defeats in their respective last week’s matches, with Qatar SC losing to Al Wakrah 0-3, while Al Shamal were edged by Al Arabi 0-1.
Qatar SC coach Yousef Safri said: “We need two important factors – focus and a composed attitude. We have a task that is not easy now. The team is aware of the responsibility and is keen to provide what is needed.”
Al Shamal coach Hisham Zahid said his team aims to claim victory in the match.
“Our eyes are on the three points and we strive to win, but at the same time we are fully aware that the match will not be easy at all against a good team that has players at the highest level and efficient technical staff,” he said.
Al Shamal are sixth on the table with six points while Qatar SC are placed ninth with four points.
