(MENAFN- The Peninsula) fawad hussain |
The Peninsula
Doha, Qatar: Treble-winners Al Duhail kicked off their preparation ahead of the new season at home as their rivals Al Sadd hit the training pitch in Seefeld, Austria yesterday.
Following the break, Hernan Crespo-coached Al Duhail underwent a fitness test and started their training on Saturday evening. The Red Knights will continue their training camp at home before leaving for Seefeld where they will also set up a training camp from July 23 to August 11.
Al Duhail are missing their stars in goalkeeper Salah Zakaria, Youssef Ayman, Bassam Al Rawi, Asem Madibo, Mohamed Muntari and captain Almoez Ali, who are representing Qatar at the ongoing CONCACAF Gold Cup in the United States.
The Red Knights were in phenomenal form in the 2022-23 season clinching the QNB Stars League, Ooredoo Cup and Qatar Cup titles.
Meanwhile, Al Sadd, who launched their preparation at home last month, held their first training session under the supervision of coach Juan Manuel Lillo at the picturesque Seefeld yesterday, hours after reaching Austria. The Wolves will continue their training camp until July 19 and will also play four friendly matches during their stay in Austria.
Al Sadd announce
Cazorla departure
Also, Al Sadd yesterday announced the departure of Spanish star Santi Cazorla, who represented the QSL giants for three seasons.
The seasoned midfielder won two Amir Cup and two QSL titles besides claiming Qatar Cup and Ooredoo Cup triumphs in Al Sadd colours. He was also named the best player of the 2020-21 season.
Meanwhile, Al Rayyan also began their preparation for the new season with a home training camp under the watchful eyes of new Portuguese coach Leonardo Jardim.
The Lions, who survived relegation from the top flight finishing ninth in the QSL points standings, will also set up their overseas training camp in Austria from July 17 to August 7.
Al Gharafa, Al Wakrah and Al Markhiya are among the other sides, who started flexing their muscles ahead of the new QSL season, which is scheduled to begin on August 17.
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