Al Ahli and Qatar SC will open the third round of the Doha Bank Stars League (DBSL) on Thursday at Al Thumama Stadium, both seeking their first victories of the 2026 season. Kickoff is scheduled for 5 p.m. as the two teams look to improve on slow starts.

Al Ahli currently occupies tenth place in the league standings with one point, awarded from a high-scoring 3-3 draw against Lusail in their previous match. Head coach Borja Jimenez emphasized the importance of securing a win to regain momentum and confidence for the remainder of the season. “We dropped two points in our previous match against Lusail and the team has no option but to win to gain points and confidence to continue winning streak,” Jimenez said, noting the need for focused play against a strong Qatar SC side.

Qatar SC, placed eleventh with one point, come into the game after suffering a heavy 2-6 defeat against Al Sadd and a subsequent draw with Al Wakrah. Coach Marquez Lopez highlighted challenges related to player absences and the integration of new team members, stating that the team is “working with the available players and preparing them appropriately.” He acknowledged Al Ahli’s strengthened squad following the addition of six new players, anticipating a challenging encounter.

Later on Thursday, Al Sailiya will face Al Arabi at Khalifa International Stadium at 7:15 p.m. Al Sailiya remain winless and at the bottom of the table after two defeats, hoping to end their losing streak. Al Arabi hold seventh place with two points and aim to secure their first win of the season to climb the standings. Al Arabi coach Cosmin Contra called the match “very tough” despite Al Sailiya’s difficult start but expressed confidence in his team’s improving tactical cohesion.

Al Sailiya coach Mirghani Al Zain acknowledged the challenge posed by Al Arabi but expressed trust in his players’ ability to perform effectively and compete strongly.

The DBSL schedule continues on Friday with Al Shamal hosting Al Shahania at Al Bayt Stadium and Lusail playing Al Wakrah at Lusail Stadium. On Saturday, Al Rayyan will face Al Duhail at Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium at 5 p.m., followed by defending champions Al Sadd taking on Al Gharafa at Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium at 7:15 p.m. Al Sadd have started the season strongly, winning both their league matches and already reaching the Qatar Cup semi-finals.