Al Shahania and Al Kharaitiyat face off in a decisive relegation play-off tomorrow, with a place in next season’s Qatar Stars League at stake at Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium.
Kick-off is scheduled for 7pm, as a top-flight side battles to retain its status against an ambitious Second Division challenger seeking promotion.
Al Shahania enter under pressure after finishing 11th in the QSL with 21 points, a result that forced them into the play-off. They approach the contest knowing defeat would confirm relegation.
Al Kharaitiyat, meanwhile, arrive in confident mood following a strong Second Division campaign. They finished runners-up with 25 points behind champions Lusail, who secured automatic promotion.
Unbeaten throughout the season and with the best defensive record in the league, Al Kharaitiyat will be aiming to carry that momentum into what promises to be a tense and decisive encounter.
Speaking ahead of the clash, Al Shahania assistant coach Pejman Montazeri acknowledged the challenge awaiting his team. “The entire season hinges on this match. We have watched them, they are a good team with a strong structure, and it will be a very difficult game for us,” he said.
Montazeri, however, expressed confidence in his side’s recent progress, highlighting improvements in mentality and performances in the closing stages of the season.
“The players are aware of this and we are well-prepared. The team is improving significantly in terms of mentality and form, as seen in the last few matches. But we are up against a side that has not lost and has the best defence, so it will be a tough match,” he added.
Echoing his coach’s sentiments, Al Shahania player Lotfi Madjer described the encounter as a ‘final’. “Everyone knows this match is very important and the entire season depends on it. It is about either staying in the First Division or being relegated,” he said.
Al Kharaitiyat coach Rachid Tiberkanine has warned his side face a tough test against Al Shahaniya in the promotion play-off, describing it as the most important stage of their season.
“The team has worked hard since the start of the season to achieve direct promotion, but we did not succeed,” he said. “However, hope remains to crown a full season’s effort with victory and promotion. Preparations are going well. We have focused on the mental side as much as the tactical one, because matches like these are decided by small details, composure and avoiding mistakes.”
The match will go to extra time and, if needed, penalties in case of a draw, ensuring a decisive outcome in this high-stakes battle.
