Al Gharafa coach Pedro Martins spoke to the media ahead of their 2023-2024 season Expo Stars League Week 7 match against Al Rayyan.

“Our match against Al Rayyan is important and our preparations have been good and with the return of players Ahmed Alaaeldin and Homam Al Ameen. Everyone is working well and there is a healthy competition between all players to play in the match which is a good thing and I am very happy about that. That’s the way they work in training.

“The clash with Al Rayyan is a difficult one and more so, since they are leading the rankings. Al Rayyan have improved a lot this season, thanks to their new signings, therefore they can compete for the league title. So for us, it will be a difficult match.

“Our fans’ support in difficult phases makes things easier and I am expecting their continued support. We will fight to win this important match against a team that is well prepared,” said Martins.

Al Gharafa player Abdulla Yousef said, “We are ready to meet Al Rayyan in a big match. Al Rayyan are a strong team and are at the top of the league, but we are ready and we promise our fans to win the three points.

“We urge our fans to keep supporting us. They have helped the players a lot. I wish they come out in full support in the match against Al Rayyan.”