Al Gharafa coach Pedro Martins is gearing up his team for a tough challenge against Shabab Al Ahli in the AFC Champions League Elite Preliminary Stage 2 game at the Al Bayt Stadium. The winners of this match will advance to the prestigious group stage of the AFC Champions League Elite from the West Zone. Al Gharafa earned their spot in this stage after finishing third in Qatar’s top flight, while Shabab Al Ahli secured their place with a 4-1 comeback win over Iran’s Sepahan in the Stage 1 match.
The Al Gharafa team will have a quick turnaround as they face Shabab Al Ahli just three days after a goalless draw against Al Khor in the Ooredoo Stars League opener. Coach Martins is expecting a strong challenge from the UAE opponents and is confident that his players will fight to secure their spot in the group stage. Star player Yacine Brahimi is hopeful to be fit for the match after missing the Ooredoo Stars League opener, while talismanic forward Yohan Boli and Spanish veteran Joselu will boost the squad.
Al Gharafa midfielder Ferjani Sassi expressed the team’s excitement and desire to achieve victory in what is expected to be a difficult match. Despite Al Ahli holding an edge over Al Gharafa in their last ACL encounters, the Qatari team is determined to put up a strong fight. Shabab Al Ahli coach Paulo Sousa emphasized the importance of not underestimating their opponents, while defender Eid Khamis highlighted the excitement surrounding the match as both teams aim to advance to the group stage.
The Al Gharafa players are fully prepared for the challenge ahead and are counting on the support of their fans to boost their morale. The atmosphere within the team is positive, and the presence of experienced players is expected to give them the strength needed to secure a victory. As Qatar’s league winners Al Sadd and runners-up Al Rayyan have already secured their spots in the group stage, Al Gharafa is eager to join them by overcoming the tough challenge posed by Shabab Al Ahli. The stage is set for an exciting match between two strong teams as they battle it out for a coveted spot in the group stage of the AFC Champions League Elite.
