Match preview — Doha set for an intriguing clash
The Stars League returns to Grand Hamad Stadium on 07/01/2026 with Al-Ahli Doha hosting Al Shamal SC in Round 12. On paper this looks like a classic contrast: Al-Ahli sit 9th with a troubled defensive record, while Al Shamal occupy second and arrive boasting a far healthier goals column. The stadium in New Slata will be the theatre for a game that promises intensity — both teams arrive having been humbled 3-0 in their last outings, so expect a reaction from both camps.
Form, stats and what they tell us
Al-Ahli have oscillated through recent results — four wins but seven losses in eleven matches and only 13 goals scored versus 23 conceded. Their home numbers are worrying: just six goals scored at home and 14 conceded, and zero clean sheets so far. The recent trend shows resilience at times — wins against Andijan and Al Khor — but consistency has been elusive.
Al Shamal present a clearer profile. Six wins, three draws and just two defeats in eleven matches, 23 goals scored and 13 conceded overall. Their attacking output is notable: 164 total shots with 67 on target for the season, and a healthy four clean sheets. While they suffered a 0-3 reverse to Al Sadd in their most recent fixture, their season-long statistics point to a side that creates chances and defends more reliably than the hosts.
The head-to-head is fresh — a December meeting in the QSL Cup saw Al-Ahli grab a 1-0 win at Al Shamal — but cup results rarely tell the whole story. The bookmaker market gives the edge to the visitors at 2.25, with Al-Ahli slightly longer at 2.80 and the draw trading 3.50. Those odds underline the market’s respect for Al Shamal’s consistency this season.
What to watch on the day
Al-Ahli will have to find urgency to shore up a leaky backline; they concede more than two goals per game at home on average. Al Shamal, meanwhile, will aim to press their advantage in transition and exploit spaces left by an attack-minded opponent. Expect an open encounter with chances at both ends — the season statistics for over 2.5 goals stand at around 63.6% for both clubs, so goal action is a reasonable expectation.
For bettors looking to sharpen their approach before placing a stake, resources such as The right time to place bets on goal markets can help frame when to move on totals, while mindset plays a role too — see How to have emotional control when placing bets? to guard against chasing losses after heavy defeats.
Betting suggestion
Based on form, season-long attacking numbers and the market signal, the strongest single-market pick here is a 1X2 back for Al Shamal SC to win at 2.25. Their superior shot volume, higher goals-scored tally and better defensive record suggest they are the more complete side over the course of the campaign — the price offers reasonable value given Al-Ahli’s home frailties. As always, stake responsibly and consider combining this with further research on team news and line-ups closer to kickoff.
