DOHA: Al Shamal will take on Al Markhiya in the first round of the Emir Cup, details showed on Tuesday. According to draw conducted by the Qatar Football Association (QFA) officials, Mesaimeer have a date with Qatar Sports Club in the other opening-round clash of the most popular football championship in the country. The draw ceremony on Tuesday was anchored by Ali Hamoud Al Naimi. QFA official Fahad Rashid was also present as were the representatives of the four clubs. The first-round matches will be held on April 9 at Hamad Bin Khalifa Stadium also known as Al Ahli Stadium. If the two matches end in draws, a penalty shootout will be used to determine a clear winner. The second phase of the Emir Cup will start on April 23, organisers said on Tuesday. Last year, Lekhwiya beat Al Sadd 4-2 on penalties after both sides ended regulation time of the title clash at 2-2.