Doha: Shahaniya and Al Markhiya won by identical 4-2 margins to advance into the second round of the Emir Cup here yesterday.
Shahaniya defeated Al Shamal, while Al Markhiya got the better of Mesaimer.
Al Shamal, who won promotion to Qatar Stars League (QSL) by winning the Second Division, could not carry forward their impressive run with Shahaniya proving too good for them.
Shahaniya take on Al Khor and Al Markhiya face Al Wakra. Both matches will be played on April 27 along with two other matches.
The country’s top teams are playing in the event over five stages with the first phase reserved for the low-ranked sides.
The season will wind to a close with the Emir Cup and football fans in the country are bracing up for it.
The country’s most popular sports event, the Emir Cup has the flavour of a football festival, with the event trophy making rounds of the city’s major landmarks, schools, offices and various organisations.
The final will be held on May 17.
The Peninsula
