Al Gharafa coach Slavisa Jokanovic spoke to the media ahead of their 2020-21 season QNB Stars League Week 13 match against Al Rayyan.

“We are looking forward to giving off our best against Al Rayyan. We have to be at our best in terms of organisation and focus. That is the key to perform well in order to achieve victory. Al Rayyan have changed their coach, but there were not many changes at the level of players. Any new coach needs time to change a lot of things, but Al Rayyan are a strong team.

“Al Gharafa vs Al Rayyan is always considered a strong match. It is a game that everyone loves to watch. We know Al Rayyan and they know us well. We expect a strong match and look forward to providing the best possible performance. The last match was not easy, especially in the first half, although we had an opportunity to advance and we did not utilise it. Instead, Qatar SC finished the first half ahead of us by two goals.

“In the second half, our players showed a great desire to return with a positive result and we were able to do that. I am sure that we can progress more in terms of performance in the upcoming matches,” said Jokanovic.

Al Gharafa player Othman Al Yahri said, “The next match is very important for us and it is no less important than any other match in the league. We will enter it with high concentration and give everything we have and hope for victory.

“Al Rayyan have excellent players. At the same time, Al Gharafa will strive to compete for the league title until the end. This match will be difficult, but we hope that success will come our way. As a player, a crowd motivates me to give my best and this is how all players feel. We are waiting for Al Gharafa fans in all matches and their presence at the stadium is great motivation for us to do well. We promise them that we will do our best.”