Al Markhiya coach Abdullah Mubarak spoke to the media ahead of their 2022-2023 season QNB Stars League Week 8 match against Umm Salal.

“Everyone knows that Al Markhiya played two matches against Al Duhail and Al Arabi during which the team presented a good level and was a match for them.

“Al Markhiya benefited from these two matches in terms of fitness and tactical aspects, and the upcoming games with teams whose levels are close to the level of our team.

“Al Markhiya will enter the match with our personality in relation to the organizational side on all lines of defence, midfield and attack, and our goal in the Umm Salal match is to win full points.

“He (Guinean striker Jose Correia) is in the stage of adaptation and needs some time, especially since he has not played competitive matches for two months,” said Abdullah Mubarak.

Al Markhiya player Driss Fettouhi said, “The match will be difficult and important at the same time, and we must go into it with high concentration because it is a game of six points and everyone is well aware of the responsibility entrusted to him to win the three points.

“The level of Umm Salal is developing under the leadership of the new coach, and a number of good players joined the team during the winter transfers. It is certain that the match will not be easy and we will work on the strengths and weaknesses of the Umm Salal team.”