Al Gharafa players during a training session.
Doha, Qatar: Al Gharafa have been one of the standout sides for much of the ongoing Qatar Stars League (QSL) season, but a recent dip in form has complicated their pursuit of the title.
The Pedro Martins-coached side had been sitting at the top of the standings before a costly three-match losing streak saw them slip down the table at a crucial stage of the campaign.
Their downturn began with a 3-1 defeat to Al Sadd last month, a result that triggered a run of disappointing performances. That setback was followed by a shock loss to Al Sailiya, and another defeat against Al Shamal in their most recent fixture further compounded their problems.
The reigning Amir Cup champions are now level on 31 points with Al Shamal, who occupy second place on goal difference. Meanwhile, defending champions Al Sadd have taken firm control of the title race, moving four points clear at the summit on the back of an impressive nine-match winning streak.
With just six matches remaining in the league season, Martins will be fully aware that his side must respond immediately if they are to remain genuine contenders for the title, particularly with Al Sadd in red-hot form.
Al Gharafa possess the attacking quality to turn their fortunes around, with captain Yacine Brahimi, Joselu and Ferjani Sassi providing experience and firepower. Martins will be hoping his squad can rediscover their rhythm during this decisive stretch of the campaign.
However, their path does not get any easier as they prepare to host Al Rayyan at Thani Bin Jassim Stadium tomorrow. Al Gharafa will be targeting all three points to reignite their title push, but Al Rayyan represent a formidable challenge.
The Lions head into the clash full of confidence after securing a 2-1 comeback victory over Al Ahli in their previous outing. Currently fourth in the standings, Al Rayyan sit just three points behind Al Gharafa and Al Shamal and will be eager to maintain their momentum while tightening the race at the top.
Following Sunday’s defeat to Al Shamal, Al Gharafa winger Rabh Yahia Boussafi acknowledged the team’s recent struggles and called for improvement.
“We’ve had a significant drop in performance lately; we haven’t been improving. There’s definitely a big question mark,” he said.
“We have to fight and keep going until the last round of the league. We have matches left. We still have hope. We shouldn’t focus on anyone else. We have to focus on ourselves and fix our weaknesses.”
