Othman Al Yahri has been a consistent performer for Al Gharafa. The midfielder is playing a key role in coach Slavisa Jokanovic’s scheme of things in this season’s QNB Stars League.

Othman proved his worth last week too by giving the assist for Al Gharafa’s winning goal, scored by Sofiane Hanni, against Al Arabi in the seventh round of 2019-20 QNB Stars League. The victory helped Al Gharafa climb from fifth to third position in the table.

The wily, hard-working player spoke to qsl.qa in an exclusive interview ahead of Al Gharafa’s QNB Stars League Week 8 match against title-contending side Al Duhail, scheduled for Saturday, 26th October.

Are Al Gharafa performing up to the expectations in the QNB Stars League?

Yes, Al Gharafa are performing very well this season. We had a better start this time compared to that in the previous few seasons. We’ve performed well so far with only one defeat against our name. We’ve collected 14 points that can help us to be among the top teams in the table.

How do you rate this season’s QNB Stars League?

To be honest, all games are difficult this season. All teams have become stronger. We’ll keep pushing in order to get the maximum number of points.

You’ve a big match against Al Duhail coming up…

Al Duhail are one of the strongest teams in Qatar. It’s always tough when we face them, they aren’t easy opponents. But on our part, we’ll go into the game with an aim to collect three points. We’ve to be at our best.

Do you think the result of this match will’ve a big impact on Al Gharafa’s position?

Yes, for sure. We’ve just beaten Al Arabi, who’re competing to be in the top bracket and we’ll look to do the same against Al Duhail. If we win, the three points will be very important for us.

How do you approach the game, in terms of preparations?

As players, we always work hard to be ready and give off our best. We always listen to our coach’s instructions. Our preparations for Al Duhail match are normal. Our technical staff are analysing the opponents and they’ll devise the best ways for us. They’ll brief us on Al Duhail’s strengths and weaknesses, and we’ve to implement the plan on the pitch.

What’ll be the game-changing factor in this match?

Small details will make a difference in this game between two strong teams, who’ve outstanding players in their ranks.

Al Gharafa dropped five crucial points in Week 5 (lost 1-3 to Al Sailiya) and Week 6 (drew 3-3 with Al Wakrah)…

Yes. We were disappointed in dropping points against Al Sailiya and Al Wakrah. We could’ve done better, but anything can happen in football. Now, we’re back to winning ways. Past is past and we’re looking forward to bagging more points.

How do you review your game against Al Arabi?

It wasn’t an easy game for us, but we were better right throughout. We competed very well. We could’ve won by more than one-goal margin, but the most important factor is getting points.

How are Al Gharafa’s fans reacting to the team’s performance?

Having fans behind us is a big positive for us. You can always expect their reactions. I think they’re happy with our performance so far in the 2019-20 QNB Stars League. We’re competing for top positions. We’ve to keep up the positive spirit among players and fans.