What a difference a year makes. This time twelve months ago, Lekhwiya had just finished fourth in the Qatar Stars League, a staggering 17 points off the pace from champions Al Rayyan.

Many in Qatari football felt that time had ran out for Red Knights coach Djamel Belmadi, recruited in the summer with the sole aim of keeping his new employers at the top of the tree domestically.

Despite missing out on the Falcon Shield since 2012/2013, Lekhwiya elected to stick with the ex-Qatar coach, who boldly predicted his side would be as strong as ever, noting: “We are coming back to win our title”.

Those words seem to have rang true, especially after Lekhwiya confirmed their fifth domestic title in seven seasons with a last-gasp winner from South Korea winger Nam Tae-hee to defeat Al Ahli Doha 2-1 on Thursday evening.

It’s been an interesting duel at the top of the standings all season between Lekhwya and Al Sadd, who have been captained by ex-Barcelona midfielder Xavi. However, a 2-2 draw at Al Sailiya allied with Nam’s last-gasp strike ended their bid with a round to go.

Central to Lekhwiya’s dominance this season has been their move to a 4-2-3-1 formation, allowing Belmadi to make the most of his attacking talent. Nam and Youssef Msakni have flourished in the new system headed up by Morocco striker Youssef El Arabi, who settled seamlessly after a summer move from Granada.

Belmadi was once infamously tetchy and on edge off the pitch, but has calmed down slightly and that has been reflected in his side’s confidence on the pitch.

Now with the title assured, Lekhwiya will be looking to pick up one of the domestic cups and make significant strides in the AFC Champions League.