Al Gharafa coach Pedro Martins spoke to the media ahead of their 2024-2025 season Ooredoo Stars League Week 13 match against Al Ahli.

“Our preparations were good and the team has reached better physical readiness than it was at the beginning of the season, especially Joselu, Yacine Brahimi, Rodrigo, Koeman and Ahmed Al Janahi, which contributes to the players’ regaining their level.

“I am very happy with the increased level of self-confidence among the players in view of the good results achieved in the league.

“It will certainly be an interesting match and we have to understand the periods that this match is in and deal well with the periods in which Al Ahli control the match, and we will also be in control of some periods and we will be more in control of its course. Both teams have great ambitions about this game, especially since Al Ahli are presenting a good season,” said Martins.

Al Gharafa player Rodrigo Moreno said, “A very important match against a big team that is presenting good levels and has great ambition to remain in the advanced positions in the league.

“All league matches are difficult and the Al Ahli match is considered to be of six points because it is against our direct competitors. For our part, we are focusing on good preparation, especially since the preparation period for this game was long and we will seek to win the three points.

“I wish our fans are present in such type of matches. I also wish we achieve victory and celebrate it with the fans after the match.”