Doha, November 06 (QNA) - Al Duhail coach Djamel Belmadi has urged his players to maintain their unbeaten Qatar Stars League record when they face Al Gharafa on Friday, despite concerns over fatigue and a congested fixture schedule.
Al Duhail, third in the standings with 18 points, are level with leaders Al Sadd and second-placed Al Rayyan after five wins and three draws.
Belmadi said his side had little time to recover after competing in the Gulf Champions League, having played three matches in a short period. He added that preparations for the Al Gharafa fixture had begun only recently.
The coach, who was named October's Manager of the Month, credited the award to the collective efforts of his players and staff.
Meanwhile, Al Gharafa coach Pedro Martins also highlighted the demands of the schedule, saying his team had played five matches in 15 days.
Martins acknowledged that several players were struggling with fatigue but said Frank Magri could return to the squad for the match.
Al Gharafa sit eighth with nine points from eight matches, having recorded two wins, three draws and three defeats.
Both sides are targeting three points, with Al Duhail looking to maintain their challenge at the top and Al Gharafa seeking to climb the table. (QNA)