DOHA: Al Shamal on Monday beat fellow recently promoted Al Shahaniya 4-2 to move into round two of the Emir Cup, the country's most popular football event. Led by striker Ali Faraidoon, Al Shamal will now meet Al Khor in round two. Monday's exciting clash took place at Grand Hamad Stadium. Faraidoon scored on two occasions, while Victor and Ayman Kamal added the other two goals. Al Shamal's next match will be against Al Khor on April 27. In the other opening day encounter, Al Markhiya managed a similar 4-2 scoreline against Mesaimeer at the Grand Hamad Stadium. Al Markhiya will play Al Wakra on the 27th of this month for a place in the third stage. The country’s eighteen teams are playing in the event over five stages with the first phase reserved for the low-ranked sides. The season will wind to a close with the Emir Cup and football fans in the country are bracing up for it. The country’s most popular sports event, the Emir Cup has the flavor of a football festival, with the event trophy making rounds of the city’s major landmarks, schools, offices and various organizations. The final will be held on May 17.