Al Gharafa face Shabab Al Ahli of the UAE in the Preliminary Stage 2 for AFC Champions League Elite at the Al Bayt Stadium on Tuesday, August 13, 2024. The winners will qualify from West Zone for the group stage of 2024-2025 AFC Champions League Elite. Kick-off is at 6.30pm.

Al Gharafa are seeking entry into the tournament proper and are more confident after their overseas European preparatory camp for the season.

Al Gharafa began their campaign in the Ooredoo Stars League with a 0-0 draw with Al Khor in Week 1.

Al Gharafa’s Portuguese coach Pedro Martins keenly followed the Preliminary Stage 1 match between Shabab Al Ahli and Sepahan of Iran, which the former won by a 4-1 margin, in order to assess the rivals.

He will also seek to address their negatives during the match against Al Khor. Martins relies on his stars Assim Madibo, Florinel Coman, Joselu, Jang Hyun-Soo, Ferjani Sassi and Fabricio Diaz.

On the other hand, Shabab Al Ahli had proved their defensive strengths against Sepahan. Goalkeeper Hassan Hamza also demonstrated his high capabilities as he thwarted many dangerous moves. They boast of the likes of Iranian striker Sardar Azmoun and Yahya Al Ghassani.