AFC Champions League Elite - Brahimi wants more as Al Gharafa get back on track

Al Rayyan: Al Gharafa SC captain Yacine Brahimi hailed his side’s performance in their 2-0 win over Iraq’s Al Shorta in their AFC Champions League Elite™ 2025/26 clash on Monday.

Brahimi’s assists set up Joselu and Ferjani Sassi to score in the second half as Al Gharafa got the first points of their campaign.

#ACLElite | Al Gharafa SC (QAT) 2-0 Al Shorta (IRQ)

“The team earned a deserved victory after imposing a clear advantage over our opponents throughout the match, through good defensive organisation and creating numerous scoring opportunities,” said Brahimi.

“I am very happy with the victory we achieved, which is very important, and I am also happy with my contribution. It was essential that we win today, and I hope we continue in the same rhythm in the upcoming matches and that our fans support us.”

After a listless opening 45 minutes, the breakthrough came just three minutes into the second half when Ahmed Al Ganehi intercepted a loose pass, allowing Brahimi to tee up Joselu for a close-range finish.

The Algerian midfielder was at the heart of the action again for the second goal, delivering a pinpoint cross for Sassi to nod home and seal the win.

Head coach Pedro Martins echoed his captain’s sentiments, praising his players’ fighting spirit and tactical discipline.

“The team achieved an important victory. Our players demonstrated great fighting spirit and played intelligently, despite not being in good physical condition due to the pressure of the matches,” Martins said.

“We contained the Iraqi team’s offensive momentum at the beginning, then shifted gears in the second half with offensive pressure and capitalised on opportunities to score two goals.”

Al Gharafa next face defending champions Al Ahli Saudi FC on Matchday Three with Al Shorta taking on Al Ittihad Club.

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