Doha:Al Duhail coach Djamel Belmadi has called on his team to preserve their unbeaten status in the Qatar Stars League as they prepare to face Al Gharafa on Friday. The team is facing challenges due to fatigue and a packed fixture schedule.
According to Qatar News Agency, Al Duhail is currently third in the league standings with 18 points, equal on points with leaders Al Sadd and second-placed Al Rayyan, following five wins and three draws. Coach Belmadi noted that the team had limited recovery time after participating in the Gulf Champions League, resulting in a congested schedule. Preparations for the upcoming match against Al Gharafa have only recently commenced.
Belmadi, who was awarded October's Manager of the Month, attributed this recognition to the collective efforts of his players and staff. On the other side, Al Gharafa's coach Pedro Martins also pointed to the demanding schedule, highlighting that his team has played five matches in the span of 15 days. Martins mentioned that while some players are dealing with fatigue, Frank Magri might make a return to the squad for the match.
Al Gharafa is currently eighth in the standings, with nine points from eight matches, having secured two wins, three draws, and three losses. Both teams are aiming for a win, with Al Duhail looking to sustain their title challenge and Al Gharafa hoping to improve their league position.