DOHA: The 44th edition of the Emir Cup will be played out in five
phases and at three venues, Qatar Football Association (QFA) announced
at a glittering draw ceremony on Wednesday.

QFA President Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Thani, Vice
President Saud Al Mohannadi and Secretary General Mansoor Al Ansari
joined club coaches and team officials at a special ceremony held at
Four Seasons Hotel.

The QFA Executive Committee members were also present along with print
and digital media officials.

A total of 18 clubs will battle for Emir Cup honours with the first of
five phases commencing on April 18, just days after the conclusion of
Qatar Stars League (QSL), officials said on Wednesday.

The most keenly-awaited football tournament in the country, Emir Cup
will end on May 20 when the two top teams battle for the crown at a
game to be witnessed by the H H the Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al
Thani.

All of the games will be telecast live by Al Kass Sports Channel and
other media outlets throughout the five stages of the event.

The organisers have planned a series of activities for the April
18-May 20 period, it was announced at the draw ceremony on Wednesday.

At the draw ceremony on Wednesday, footage of old Emir Cup matches was
run for a short while followed by event details given by Ali Hamoud Al
Nuaimi, the Competitions Manager.

The final of the tournament will be held at Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium
on May 20. Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium is the home territory of Al Sadd.

Al Arabi Club and Suheim Bin Hamad Stadium are the two other venues to
be used for the five-week event.

The opening game of the tournament will be played between Muaither and
Al Shahaniya – the two top sides in Qatargas League. Muaither and Al
Shahniya will appear in QSL from next season.

In the second game, Al Makrkhiya and Al Shamal will face-off for a
place in the second round of the tournament.

The five stage:

The first round – April 18 2016
The second round – April 23, 2016
The third round – April 28, 2016
the fourth round – May 8, 2016
The fifth round – 13 May 2016- final on May 20, 2016.

Competition venues:

Suhaim Bin Hamad Stadium of Qatar SC
Grand Hamad Stadium, Arabi Sports Club –
Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium, Al Sadd Sports Club.