Al Gharafa players celebrated a significant 4-2 victory over Al Ain, the reigning continental champions, with a team selfie and praise from their coach, Pedro Martins. The Cheetahs took a commanding 2-0 lead in the match thanks to a brace from Joselu but had to fend off a strong comeback from Al Ain. Despite the pressure, goals from Alejandro Romero and Soufiane Rahimi, Al Gharafa secured their first victory in the AFC Champions League Elite with Seydou Sano and Yacine Brahimi also getting on the scoresheet.
After suffering a 3-0 defeat to Esteghlal in their opening match, Martins was thrilled with his team’s turnaround in form and performance. The coach expressed his delight in the team’s continued improvement in each game, emphasizing the importance of this progress for a successful season. Martins commended Al Ain for their effort in leveling the scores after falling behind but was pleased with his team’s response in scoring two more goals to secure the win.
Joselu, who was the star of the match, shared his satisfaction in playing a crucial role in the victory and emphasized the importance of the team’s success over individual accolades. The Spanish forward highlighted the significance of bouncing back from a recent league defeat and showcasing the team’s unity and performance in their match against Al Ain. Looking ahead, Joselu stressed the need for the team to maintain focus and continue performing at a high level in upcoming matches.
With their next AFC Champions League Elite match against Al Wasl Club on October 22, Al Gharafa’s immediate focus will be on their QSL Cup match against Umm Salal on Saturday. The team will aim to carry the momentum from their victory over Al Ain into their upcoming fixtures and continue their positive run of form. As they look to build on their recent success, Al Gharafa will be motivated to put in strong performances and secure more wins in both domestic and continental competitions.
The victory over Al Ain highlighted Al Gharafa’s potential and ability to compete with top opposition in the AFC Champions League. Martins’ praise for the team’s performance and improvement reflects their dedication and hard work on the field. With key players like Joselu stepping up and delivering crucial goals, Al Gharafa will be looking to maintain their winning momentum and make a strong impact in their upcoming matches. By continuing to work together as a unit and staying focused on their goals, Al Gharafa will be aiming for further success in the season ahead.
Overall, Al Gharafa’s win over Al Ain was a significant achievement that showcased their resilience, quality, and potential in the AFC Champions League Elite. With their coach’s support, the team’s positive mindset, and strong performances from key players, Al Gharafa will be looking to build on this victory and continue their impressive form in both domestic and continental competitions. As they prepare for upcoming challenges, Al Gharafa will aim to maintain their winning streak and further establish themselves as a competitive force in Qatar football.
