Al Gharafa coach Pedro Martins spoke to the media ahead of their 2024-2025 season Ooredoo Stars League Week 18 match against Umm Salal.

“We were not happy after losing the last match against Al Sadd, but I see the reaction from the players fighting and working for the next match and we need a reaction because it is an important match for us.

“I see Umm Salal as a fighting team even in view of the numerical shortage in their last match against Qatar SC. They fought and deserved the draw because they were cohesive and were fighting for a good result. We do not expect the match to be easy because I saw them in their last matches, it was a cohesive team and we have to be serious and focused, and get rid of the mistakes we made in the last match and play with our identity,” said Martins.

Al Gharafa player Mostafa Essam said, “The match is a difficult one against a team with good capabilities, but thank God we as players are in a better psychological state.

“I hope we achieve victory and make our fans happy, to whom we extend our thanks and appreciation for supporting us in all circumstances.”