Al Sadd and Al Rayyan set for Qatar Clasico

Doha: Reigning champions Al Sadd and title contenders Al Rayyan will square off in the first Qatar Clasico of the new season, with the eagerly-awaited match – set to be played at the iconic Khalifa International Stadium today – deemed crucial for both the top sides in their QNB Stars League (QSL) campaigns.  

Xavi Hernandez-coached Al Sadd won both their opening matches but Al Rayyan – under Frenchman Laurent Blanc – didn’t have a start they wanted, sharing points with Umm Salal and Al Wakrah in the first two rounds.    

But when it comes to Qatar Clasico, it takes the best out of players from both the QSL giants, and Xavi is aware of the challenge his ranks face against The Lions.