Al Gharafa coach Pedro Martins spoke to the media ahead of their 2023-2024 season Expo Stars League Week 1 match against Qatar SC.

“It will certainly be a strong match, especially since the opponents Qatar SC are a good team with experience, and they are almost the same team like last season with the continuation of the same players and coach and playing with the same philosophy.

“The opening match has its own specialties, which cannot reflect a true technical indicator of performance in view of the players’ need for more match fitness and more technical consistency, but it is important for us to start well in this tournament, and we know that because we have our own goals during this season.

“I am really happy that the players are doing their best to start the tournament well and everyone wants to have a great season because Al Gharafa deserve it and it is our responsibility to put Al Gharafa in the place they deserve in the league and we have no excuses.

“Our fans will enjoy what the team offers and they will like and enjoy the matches that we will present to them. My players and I are certain that we will present great matches,” said Martins.

Al Gharafa player Yacine Brahimi said, “Qatar SC are a good team, they have good players and a good coach, and I think we must focus on our team with all the respect I have for Qatar SC and we will do our best to win the match because we will play all games to win, God-willing. We will get the three points.

“I think the first game is always very important and to start the opening game with a win is essential for me, and it is very important for the rest of the season because if we win, it will give us more energy, more motivation and confidence.”