Al Gharafa coach Pedro Martins spoke to the media ahead of their 2025-2026 Doha Bank Stars League Week 13 match against Al Arabi.

“Preparations went off well. The team’s strong performance against Umm Salal was a positive response. Confidence had been significantly boosted and the atmosphere is much more positive, resulting in excellent preparation for the upcoming match.

“Al Arabi, under the previous coach, relied on a possession-based style of play, but with the current coach, things have changed considerably. They now rely heavily on direct play and occasionally on possession. In my opinion, Al Arabi can compete for a top-three finish.

“As for this match, it is one of the most important of the season for us because Al Arabi are a developing team with strength in all aspects and I expect it to be one of the best matches of the season,” said Martins.

Al Gharafa player Amro Seraj said, “Preparations for the Al Arabi match were like any other match preparations, the players will strive to implement the coach’s instructions. The team is coming off a good victory and will perform with the same spirit and seriousness.

“Al Arabi are a strong team with good players and we will focus on ourselves. Our goal is to maintain our lead.”