Al Gharafa coach Andrea Stramaccioni spoke to the media ahead of their 2021-2022 season QNB Stars League Week 15 match against Umm Salal.

“Umm Salal are a cohesive team and that was evident from their recent matches after they changed the way they played. And they have foreign professionals who are playing well.

“I know the capabilities of Umm Salal players and that their coach is doing a good job.

“The match is between direct competitors because the competition to be in the top four is not limited to Al Gharafa, Al Arabi and Al Wakrah alone. Umm Salal are also in the race. So are Al Ahli…

“Some of our players have recovered and we will not look for excuses, especially in defence. I trust the capabilities of our players and when we talk about defence, I don’t mean only defenders, but I talk about the team as a whole because the attackers are the first defenders. When there is a mistake, the whole team is concerned with that and we know how to defend and we have to focus and avoid mistakes,” said Stramaccioni.

Al Gharafa player Shalaban Abdullah said, “All players are ready for the Umm Salal match, especially since the opponents are not easy. Everyone knows that Umm Salal have achieved positive results, but they lost the last match and are seeking compensation. We had also lost our last match (to Al Duhail) and our goal is to win the three points.

“As a player, I train well and make great efforts, and I am keen to grab the opportunities that come my way.”