Al Gharafa coach Andrea Stramaccioni spoke to the media ahead of their 2022-2023 season QNB Stars League Week 5 match against Al Ahli.

“After we lost to Al Shamal in our third match, I had asked the players to make a good comeback against Al Sadd in the next and I think they played in a good spirit to win 2-1. But of course, I was not completely happy because we had an opportunity to score the third goal and be ahead 3-0. We needed this victory to raise the morale of the players, especially since we had not beaten Al Sadd for years. I am also happy with our fans and their support for our players.

“The team should continue working with the same strength and winning mentality with which we have played so far. The match against Al Ahli is an indicator to know our level. Last season, the team was not able to continue at the same level after winning every big match, so I see that the Al Ahli match will be a good test for our players,” said Stramaccioni.

Al Gharafa player Abdalla Yousif said, “It was a very difficult match (against Al Sadd) and the players did what they had to do and we deserved to win. The Al Ahli match will also be strong, but we hope to win and reap the three points.

“The players (senior pros Ishak Belfodil and Farid Boulaya joining the team) are a strong addition to the squad we, youngsters, benefit from their experience.”