Doha: Al Shamal SC yesterday revealed an ambitious pre-season program as the club looks to build on last season’s impressive run.
The team will kick off their preparations for the 2025-26 campaign with a training camp in Doha from July 1 before heading to the Netherlands for an intensive overseas camp.
Scheduled to run from July 17 to August 5, the Dutch camp will include three friendlies set for July 22, July 30, and August 4. The crucial fixtures are aimed at sharpening the squad ahead of the upcoming season. The rigorous itinerary reflects the club’s intent to maintain momentum after a commendable sixth-place finish in the Qatar Stars League last season, along with quarter-final appearances in both the Amir Cup and the Ooredoo Cup.
As they gear up to resume action, Al Shamal have also extended the contract of experienced goalkeeper Omar Bari through to 2026, signaling their faith in the veteran custodian’s leadership.
Al Shamal will kick off their Qatar Stars League campaign on August 14 with a clash against Al Ahli at the Khalifa International Stadium.
Meanwhile, fellow Qatari side Al Arabi SC will also head to Europe for their pre-season training camp. The Dream Team will conduct their camp in Valencia, Spain, from July 15 to August 3.
Led by Spanish head coach Pablo Amo, Al Arabi are scheduled to play several friendly matches during their stay in Spain, with opponents to be confirmed later.
After a turbulent 2024-25 campaign that saw them finish ninth in the league, Al Arabi will be eager to make a strong comeback. Despite their struggles in the League, Al Arabi offered their fans a silver lining with a spirited run to the QSL Cup before narrowly losing to Al Duhail.
As part of their preparations, Al Arabi has been active in the summer transfer window, securing the services of Spanish forward Pablo Sarabia on a two-year contract. The team has also made a number of domestic signings, including prominent goalkeeper Youssef Hassan from Al Gharafa.
Al Arabi’s season starts when they take on Al Wakrah at Al Thumama Stadium on August 15.
