Third Qatargas U-23 League begins

DOHA:  The Qatar Football Association (QFA) yesterday announced the launch of the third Qatargas U-23 League season 2019-20, which will begin today with three matches.

The event was launched at a joint press conference held by the QFA and Qatargas at Al Bidda Tower.

The third edition of the league showcases the longstanding and fruitful partnership between Qatargas and the QFA which has been in place for many years and witnessed the delivery of numerous successful events and projects.

The press conference was attended by Khalid Mubarak Al Kuwari, Director of Marketing and Communications at QFA, Ali Ibrahim Al Sulaiti, Public Relations Manager at Qatargas, and representatives from QFA and participating teams.

It was announced that the participating teams in this year’s edition include 12 clubs: Al Ahli SC, Al Sadd SC, Al Duhail SC, Al Rayyan SC, Al Arabi SC, Al Gharrafa SC, Qatar SC, Umm Salal SC, Al Khor SC, Al Sailiya SC, Al Wakrah SC, and Al Shahania SC.

Al Kass, the host broadcaster, will broadcast the matches, and produce a special program focused on covering all aspects and highlights of the league and featuring interviews with players, coaches and other club officials.

Speaking at the press conference, Al Kuwari commented: “The Qatar Football Association and Qatargas have a long-standing partnership. Qatargas U-23 League is one of the fruitful results of this unique partnership and emphasises the depth of the relationship between the QFA and Qatargas.

“Qatargas is the world’s premier liquefied natural gas company and is one of the key sponsors of QFA, having them on board is an important achievement which we aim it continues for many years ahead as it’s part of the QFA’s 2021 vision.”

He added: “Preparations for Qatargas U-23 League have started after the end of the last season, in which a full-fledged marketing and media plan has been put in place in cooperation with our partners Qatargas and Al Kass, to showcase a perfect league.

“I thank Al Kass for its great efforts in promoting the league and the successful relationship throughout QFA’s matches and competitions.”

Al Sulaiti, PR Manager at Qatargas said: “Qatargas is delighted to be part of this exciting league that brings together some of the most aspiring young footballers in Qatar. We are hopeful that Qatargas’ support for the league will go a long way in taking Qatar’s football to new heights, especially as the country is getting ready to host the World Cup in 2022. I thank the Qatar Football Association for providing us this opportunity to be part of the State of Qatar’s efforts to be one of the world’s leading sports destinations.”

Umm Salal SC will play Al Arabi SC while Al Khor will face Al Ahli SC, and Al Duhail SC will meet defending champions Al Rayyan on the opening day. Matches will be played at 6:15pm at Al Khor, Al Sailiya and Al Arabi stadiums.

Week 1 matches will continue tomorrow while Week 2 and 3 games will be played on September 23 and September 30. All matches will be played on Mondays and Tuesdays of every week. Week 4 of the league will begin on 21 October and matches will be announced at a later stage.