Stars of the 20th round - Qatar Star League
Round 20 of the QSL season saw five international level players step up with telling contributions for their teams. In our regular feature stars of the league, we highlight the difference makers and the impacts they had in the round. Former Chilean international Luis Jiminez put in a commanding performance in the center of midfield as Al Arabi defeated Al Gharafa on Thursday evening. The former Al Ahli man opened the scoring for his side moments after the second half restart, and looked assured in attack for Al Arabi. Jiminez will be targeting another impressive performance when Al Arabi takes on old rivals Al Sadd in the stand out tie of round 21. Iraqi international winger Ahmed Yasin registered his first goals for Muaither, as Phillipe Birol’s side showed plenty of character to come back from two goals down to draw with Al Khor 2-2. Yasin was on hand to head the ball into the back of the net on the 68th minute, and helped his side’s comeback by calmly scoring the equalizer on the 74th minute. Stallions coach Phillipe Birol will now be hoping that Yasin can add to his tally when Muaither take on Al Rayyan in round 22.
Current Qatar International defender Mohammed Musa put on a defensive masterclass to deny Al Rayyan on Friday evening. Musa’s running battle with fellow international Sebastian Soria was a real highlight of the game, with Musa often having the upper hand throughout the match. The no-nonsense defender was also a danger from set-pieces for his side. Uzbekistan international Sardor Rashidov grabbed a brace as El Jaish returned to winning ways with a 2-1 victory over Al Shahania. Rashidov has been a regular on the stars of the league feature this season, and his goals proved to be crucial to Sabri Lamochi’s boys. Even more impressive was the stunning free-kick that Rashidov scored from a full 30 yards to assure the win. El Jaish will now be looking to maintain their form when they take on a struggling Al Kharaitiyat side in round 21. Al Sadd midfielder Xavi put in a captains performance as his Wolves side ran out 3-1 winners over rock-bottom Al Wakrah on Saturday evening. The former Spanish international grabbed a brace and looked stable in the center of the park, dictating the play. The win also means that Al Sadd have closed the gap on league leaders Lekhwiya to just three points.
