Al Gharafa coach Pedro Martins spoke to the media ahead of their 2023-2024 season Expo Stars League Week 8 match against Al Arabi.

“Our preparations have been good like all previous matches and we do not have injury worries such as Lyanco’s case the last time. All our players are in good condition and we are ready for the clash and know its importance. The confrontation with Al Arabi is strong and the three points in the match are important for us.

“We certainly need to find a player in the centre of defence because the league this season will be difficult and long. And yes, we need a replacement urgently (for Lyanco), and we must do it quickly. But for now I have to work with the existing players and improve the level.

“Al Arabi have a good group of players and I am surprised by their position in the rankings table because the team’s capabilities are very good. I know that their start wasn’t good and when you have pressure sometimes searching for a win becomes difficult.

“Al Arabi also have a good coach (Younes Ali) and he proved last year that they are one of the best teams in the league. But for us, it is also important that we win this match. If we win it, it will also be a big step on our part.” Said Martins.

Al Gharafa player Othman Al Yahri said, “The team’s morale is high after our victory over Al Rayyan and everyone is ready and excited.

“Of course, it is a difficult match, and despite the losses they’ve suffered, Al Arabi can still fight back and thus the match has a special character. Al Arabi have high-level national and foreign professional players and we know that they are looking to bounce back, but we are ready.

“Our fans, like for any club, are an important element for us. The team will aim to compete for the lead, and therefore we ask our fans for their continued support. Their backing, when we lose, is more important than victory. With their presence, we have great moral motivation behind us and we shall strive as much as we can to make them happy.”