Doha : Qatar’s Al Gharafa will take on UAE side Sharjah on Wednesday evening in the Qatari-Emirati Super Cup at Thani bin Jassim Stadium.
Al Gharafa, known as the “Cheetahs,” enter the match in high spirits as they chase another piece of silverware. The Doha-based club lead the Doha Bank Stars League after 13 rounds, holding a five-point advantage over second-placed Al Sadd, and are among the leading contenders for the league title.
The Qatari side, who lifted the Emir Cup last season, boast several key players, including Algerian playmaker Yacine Brahimi, Tunisian midfielder Ferjani Sassi and Spanish striker Joselu. Al Gharafa are also relying on the experience of Portuguese coach Pedro Martins, although the club has stressed the need for maximum focus against tough opposition.
Sharjah, meanwhile, are seeking to secure their second trophy of the season after winning the UAE Super Cup in December. Despite struggling in domestic competition and sitting 10th in the league standings, the Emirati side are determined to add the Super Cup to their honours list.
The match marks the second meeting between the two clubs this season. They previously faced each other in September in the opening round of the AFC Champions League, when Sharjah edged a seven-goal thriller 4-3.
