Al Arabi head coach Cosmin Contra addressed journalists before his side’s Week 15 encounter in the 2025–2026 Doha Bank Stars League, stressing the weight carried by fixtures after the mid-season break.
Al Arabi head coach Cosmin Contra addressed journalists before his side’s Week 15 encounter in the 2025–2026 Doha Bank Stars League, stressing the weight carried by fixtures after the mid-season break.
He explained that contests played after the turn of the campaign often shape the final standings, leaving teams unable to afford slip-ups or dropped points.
According to the Romanian tactician, securing a full result is essential if Al Arabi are to keep moving forward, yet he warned that the upcoming rival possesses clear objectives of its own.
Contra underlined that the squad has shown complete commitment in the build-up, pointing to an intense period of training aimed at ensuring peak readiness.
He noted that concentration levels across the group remain high, with every individual aware of the responsibility attached to the fixture.
The coach added that success will depend on organisation, focus and sustained competitiveness from kickoff until the final whistle, elements he believes are vital to reinforcing Al Arabi’s league position.
Midfielder Gerard Hernandez echoed his coach’s sentiments, stating that the players are eager to produce a convincing display against Al Shamal.
He said the latter stage of the competition demands full effort in every outing, describing each match as a chance to elevate the club’s ranking and push toward a top-four finish.
Hernandez also delivered a direct appeal to the fan base, emphasising that backing from the terraces can provide the belief and drive needed to collect the points required for the team’s next objectives.
