DOHA: Al Gharafa will be eyeing a win against bottom side Umm Salal today, as they aim to kick-start their challenge for the Qatar Stars League (QSL) title this season, said coach Zico (pictured).
The Brazilian legend, who joined the club in July, sees his side occupy sixth spot, seven points behind leaders Eljaish.
Speaking during a press conference, Zico said: “We’re preparing very well for this match against Umm Salal. We welcome back quite a few players from international duty, who we will need because this will be a tough game.
“We lost against Kharaitiyat in the QNB Cup but this will not affect us because the tournaments are completely different. Our players have the determination to keep winning, even though I know the difficulty of the match.”
He added: “We have a strong desire to get the three points in this game because we are determined to fight for the title. That’s our big aim. We want to compete. We don’t just want to be playing games for the sake of it.”
Zico’s opposite number, Gerard Gilis is hoping his players will play to their best of their ability.
He said: “I have a lot of respect for Gharafa and what they are trying to do.
“We’re focused on trying to win the points and seeing where that takes us. Our team is young and dynamic but sometimes because of that you perhaps don’t get the results you want. I hope we keep our concentration and try to win the three points.”
Elsewhere, in other matches today, fifth-placed Al Wakra take on Al Khor, and 12th placed Muaither face Al Kharaitiyat, who are ranked three places higher.
In QSL matches tomorrow, Al Rayyan will meet Qatar SC, two-time champions Lekhwiya will be aiming for their fifth win of the season against 10th-ranked Al Ahli.
Points leaders Eljaish face stiff competition from Al Sailiyah, who are ranked second in the standings.
QSL champions Al Sadd will be aiming to close the gap at the top when they face Al Arabi. THE PENINSULA
