Can Al-Gharafa Trouble the Table-Toppers?

Al-Rayyan have conceded just two goals in five Stars League matches this season, and that record is a big reason they sit top of the table on 13 points. On Sunday they head to Al Gharafa Stadium in Doha, where the favourites face a side that has struggled to find its footing.

Leaders against a side in trouble

The gap in the table is wide. Al-Gharafa are 10th of 12 with four points and a goal difference of -5, while Al-Rayyan’s is +8. Anything other than a comfortable away win would be a surprise on paper, which is exactly why the underdog angle matters. Al-Gharafa need to turn a home game into a test of nerve for the leaders.

Two very different runs

Al-Rayyan have been unbeaten throughout the campaign, with four wins and a draw. They have scored 10 goals and conceded two, and their away form is just as convincing: two wins from two, with five goals scored and one conceded on the road.

Al-Gharafa have one win, one draw and three defeats. They have scored six and conceded 11, and seven of those goals came in away matches. Their only clean sheet of the season came at home, which tells you where their problem lies.

Gharafa’s grip on the rivalry

History offers Al-Gharafa some hope. In the last five meetings between the sides, they have won four and drawn once. Their most recent win was a 3-2 home victory in February, and they also beat Al-Rayyan 2-3 away in September and 1-2 in the Emir Cup in May. Al-Rayyan have not won any of those five games.

Our prediction

Al-Gharafa 1-2 Al-Rayyan SC

Al-Rayyan’s defence and their away record make them the clear favourites, and they should control much of the match. Al-Gharafa’s recent knack against this opponent and their leaky defence mean the game could be open and goals are likely. A home side with a point to prove could make it tight, but the visitors have the stronger all-round game.