Al Arabi Sports Club midfielder Abdullah Maarafi stressed the tough challenge in his sides upcoming match against Umm Salal in round 11 of the Qatar Stars League. The player spoke to QSL online in an exclusive interview.

How have the team prepared for the Umm Salal game?
Preparations have gone well so far, training has gone well this week. We have been focusing on how we can improve from our last victory over Al Ahli.

What are your expectations for the match?
It is going to be tough match against Umm Salal. Both teams have being doing well in the league. I think it will be a cautious start from both teams, especially in trying not to concede an early goal.



Can Al Arabi continue winning?
Of course, that is our hope! We defeated Al Ahli 1-0 last time out so confidence is high in the squad. I think we can get the win.

What are the strengths and weaknesses of each team?
For usI think our fans can be  the secret to our success. As for Umm Salal they have a great  head coach and players. But I know that our Italian head coach Zola  will get the best from our side and grab the win

How do you see the tactical confrontation between both head coaches?
Zola is one of the best tactical coaches in the league this is clear through our performances this season. As for Umm Salal coach Bulent  Uygen, he is a great coach you only have to see Umm Salal’s position in the league to show this.  

What is Al Arabi ambition this season?
 For a side like Al Arabi it has to be to win a trophy of some kind. I think under our new coach we have developed a real identity  under Zola and I think we can achieve our goal. Arabi have huge ambition and we will never stop moving forward. I think we can also finish in the top 4 this season.
 
Umm Salal face Al Arabi in the QSL Match of the week. On Friday the 4^th of December at the Jassim Bin Hamad stadium Kick-off at 18:30pm.