
Al-Sailiya vs Al-Rayyan Match Preview and Prediction
Qatar Stars League – Round 12
Match Time: January 6, 2026 (Local Qatar Time)
Match Background
The 12th round of the Qatar Stars League brings an intriguing clash as newly promoted Al-Sailiya host title hopefuls Al-Rayyan. The hosts are under pressure in the relegation battle and urgently need points, while the visitors are still chasing the league leaders and cannot afford to drop any ground.
This matchup sets up a classic contrast in motivation and quality, with survival on one side and championship ambition on the other.
Team Form Analysis
Al-Sailiya
The Doha-based club recently celebrated its 30th anniversary with promotion from the second division and has shown moments of competitiveness at the top level. Between late September and early October, Al-Sailiya even managed a two-match winning streak, their only victories of the campaign so far.
However, consistency has been a major issue. In the previous round, they were held to a 0–0 draw away at Al-Wakrah, once again highlighting their struggles in the final third.
So far this season, Al-Sailiya average 1.09 goals scored per match while conceding 1.64 goals, numbers that place them firmly in the relegation zone.
Al-Rayyan
Al-Rayyan finished fifth last season, earning a place in the AFC Champions League 2 qualifiers, though their continental performance was disappointing. Domestically, however, they have shown improvement and remain firmly in the title conversation.
Their most recent league match ended in a 2–2 draw against Al-Arabi, extending a strong run of form. Led by Wesley, Roger Guedes, and Thiago Silva in midfield, Al-Rayyan boast one of the league’s most dangerous attacking units.
They currently average 2.18 goals scored per game, while conceding 1.64, underlining their attacking intent but occasional defensive vulnerability.
Key Statistics and Trends
Al-Sailiya has lost two of their last four league matches
55% of Al-Sailiya’s matches end with both teams scoring
Average total goals in Al-Sailiya matches: 2.73
Al-Rayyan has won three of their last four matches
73% of Al-Rayyan’s matches end with both teams scoring
Average total goals in Al-Rayyan matches: 3.82
Al-Rayyan have won the last two head-to-head meetings against Al-Sailiya
Probable Starting Lineups
Al-Sailiya (probable lineup)
Younes – Abdalla, Nani, van der Kapp, Mahmoud – Diogo Fonseca Amaro, Mohammed, Tabouni, Ounas, Sabah – Snana
Al-Rayyan (probable lineup)
Abunada – Al-Bahit, David Garcia, Saleh, Yousif – Gregore, Thiago Silva, Wesley, Roger Guedes, Pereira dos Santos – Alaa
Odds Analysis
Betting Market | Selection | Odds | Analysis |
|---|---|---|---|
Asian Handicap | Al-Rayyan -1 | 1.60 | Clear quality gap and stronger attacking depth |
Match Result | Al-Rayyan Win | 1.40 | Visitors dominate recent form and H2H |
Both Teams to Score | Yes | 1.55 | Both sides show high BTTS percentages |
Total Goals | Over 2.5 | 1.65 | Al-Rayyan games average nearly 4 goals |
Free Prediction for Al-Sailiya vs Al-Rayyan
Al-Sailiya’s fighting spirit should not be underestimated, but over 90 minutes, the difference in squad depth, attacking quality, and experience is likely to tell. Al-Rayyan’s offensive firepower gives them a strong edge, especially against a defense that has struggled throughout the season.
Best Bet: Al-Rayyan -1 Asian Handicap
Recommended Odds: 1.60
Predicted Score: Al-Sailiya 1–3 Al-Rayyan