Al Duhail coach Luis Castro spoke to the media ahead of their 2021-2022 season QNB Stars League Week 3 match against Al Gharafa.

“My team is ready for what will be an important match with Al Gharafa in the third round. The players are confident of getting their third win in a row.

“We are looking forward to winning and getting the full points from this match. We do not look at the results of other teams. We respect our opponents and prepare for matches looking at their strengths and weaknesses.

“Football depends on professionalism and respect. Al Gharafa have a good midfield and a quick attack and we must not make mistakes. I can safely say the match will be very difficult for both teams.

“We have players with outstanding levels, but my squad became complete only 10 days ago. We conducted a successful pre-season camp, but we missed many players. Now we are working with the players physically and technically in order to prepare them for the matches,” said Castro.

Al Duhail captain Almoez Ali said, “We are looking at a difficult match. It will be tough for both sides. We succeeded in gaining six points from the first two matches, which is what we were seeking in view of the absences.

“I must commend the backroom staff in how they succeeded in developing a technical plan that enabled the team to overcome all obstacles and achieve the two wins. We are facing a difficult confrontation against Al Gharafa that requires everyone to focus. We know perfectly well that Al Gharafa have the same motives with which we will enter the stadium. It will be an exciting match.

“We will work with full focus and strength in all matches to regain the title that we lost due to many circumstances that greatly affected our level last season. But this season is different and we will work hard to show the true face of the team and provide the required levels.”