Al Gharafa face defending champions Al Sadd in key QSL clash

Aug 27, 2025

As the 2025-26 Qatar Stars League season enters its third round, all eyes are on the thrilling match between Al Gharafa and defending champions Al Sadd.

Scheduled for Thursday at the Jassim bin Hamad Stadium, the fixture will be a decisive test for both sides as they strive for top honors.

Current form and standings

Al Gharafa started the new QSL campaign with a perfect record, boasting two consecutive wins. They kicked off with an emphatic 4-2 win over Umm Salal, followed by a narrow 2-1 win against Al Arabi.

The Pedro Martins-led squad currently sits second in the table, tied on points with leaders Al Shamal and Qatar SC, highlighting their early-season momentum.

In contrast, Al Sadd, under the stewardship of Felix Sanchez, have had a mixed start. They lost their opening match 2-3 against Qatar SC but bounced back with a solid 2-0 win over Al Ahli, earning them three points and placing them fifth.

Despite losing Brazilian star Claudinho to an injury, the side remains potent with top players like Roberto Firmino, Rafael Mujica, Akram Afif, Giovani Henrique, and Hassan Al Haydos forming the team’s backbone.

Key Players and Tactical Battle

Both teams boast star-studded lineups capable of turning the match decisively. Al Gharafa relies heavily on playmakers and attackers like Yacine Brahimi, Ferjani Sassi, and Joselu, whose performances have been pivotal in their perfect start.

Al Sadd, renowned for their tactical discipline and attacking prowess, will seek to impose their style through their experienced player core. The absence of Claudinho poses a challenge, but the squad’s depth and Felix Sanchez’s coaching savvy remain a formidable combination.

Other Third Round Highlights

The round will also feature an enticing clash between Al Rayyan and Al Duhail at the Ahmad bin Ali Stadium, kicking off at 6.30pm on Thursday. Both clubs are aiming for the title this season, but have had rocky starts.

Al Duhail, last year’s runners-up, are searching for their first win following a draw with Al Shahania and a defeat to Al Wakrah, while Al Rayyan aims to bounce back after a loss to Al Shamal despite starting with a win over Al Sailiya.

Al Shamal, surprising early leaders with two straight wins, face Al Sailiya in a crucial Saturday fixture, seeking to maintain their top spot. Meanwhile, Qatar SC looks to continue their winning run against struggling Al Ahli, who are rock bottom after consecutive losses.