Al Rayyan players gear up for their match against Al Wakrah.
Doha, Qatar: Al Rayyan will seek a second straight victory when they face Al Wakrah in the second round of the Qatar Stars League at Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium today.
The match will kick off at 7:30pm, with Al Rayyan looking to build on their 1-0 win over newcomers Lusail.
Al Wakrah, meanwhile, opened their campaign with a 2-2 draw against Qatar SC and will be chasing their first victory.
The fixture will see Al Rayyan coach Vicente Moreno come up against his former club, having coached Al Wakrah last season before taking charge of Al Rayyan and guiding them to the Gulf Club Champions League title.
Moreno said he expects another difficult test but wants his team to maintain its winning start.
“We won a hard-fought game against Lusail, but it’s very important to win again. Al Wakrah are a good team and it will be a very difficult match. We need to win, we want to win, and I’m confident my players will put in a very good performance,” he said at a press conference yesterday.
Moreno also described the fixture as a special one after his time with Al Wakrah.
Al Shamal’s Baghdad Bounedjah in action during team’s training session ahead of the game against Al Gharafa.
“For me, playing against Al Wakrah is always special because the club is like family to me.”
Al Wakrah coach Jose Luis Sierra believes his side are capable of challenging Al Rayyan after their opening-round draw.
“Regardless of the opponent, I think my team is in good shape. We played a strong match in the last game, although there are some things to correct. With this level of performance, I think we have a real chance of beating Al Rayyan.”
Sierra added: “Al Rayyan are a very strong team with good players and a distinguished coach who was here last season. They are a tough opponent, but we are ready.”
Earlier, Al Shamal and Al Gharafa will meet at Khalifa International Stadium at 5:15pm.
Al Gharafa defeated Al Shahania 2-1 in their opener while Al Shamal were held to a 2-2 draw by Al Arabi.
Al Shamal coach David Prats expects a demanding contest against the reigning Amir Cup champions.
“We are expecting a tough match against a formidable team like Al Gharafa. It will require a hard-fought effort from us. They have a strong group of players and it will not be easy.”
Al Gharafa coach Pedro Martins is looking for an improved display after their narrow opening-round victory.
“Preparations have been very good, especially after our victory in the first match. We know we didn’t perform at our best, but winning is always positive and gives the players confidence.”
Martins expects an open contest.
“I expect an open game against Al Shamal. We watched their first match and it was open, with both teams having control at different moments. I expect the same in our game, and I believe the team that is more focused and makes fewer mistakes will be closer to winning.”
