DOHA (Qatar): Al Arabi face one of the most important challenges of the season when they take on Al Gharafa as the Qatar Stars League returns after a four-month break.
Arabi, in fifth, are four points behind fourth-placed Gharafa and a defeat will almost put paid to their hopes of a fourth-place finish.
Coach Heimir Hallgrimsson said they need to win the match.
“It is the season’s game because of the difference in points between both teams in the table, where Al Arabi are fifth with 24 points and Al Gharafa fourth with 28 points. So we have to work to achieve victory in this match,” said Hallgrimsson.
“It is really good to be back. It was a difficult period for everyone, we are happy with the return of football action. First of all, we would like to thank all those who made it happen.
“Normally, we would be preparing for a new season at this time, but now we are preparing to complete this season, which is a challenge and a difficult time as well.
“I think we have many players who have benefited from this break. We have achieved a good level before the break and have performed well in many matches.
“We have young players who need time to progress so we can focus on their development. We have players who train so hard as well and I am excited to see how they will be when they are back in action.
“It is really sad that we will be playing in the absence of fans due to the current circumstances, but they will watch us on TV. I hope they will be proud of our performance and we will do everything for that,” said Hallgrimsson.
Al Arabi player Abdulrahman Anad said, “We still have five games to play which are all important. It is going to be a decisive game against Al Gharafa because it will give us a chance to be back among the top 4. We will do our best to grab the three points.
