Prediction Al Gharafa vs Al Shamal SC 2025/2026 – Betting Tips for the QSL Cup on 27/10/2025

Match context and form check

The Group Stage duel at Grand Hamad Stadium on 27 October promises an intriguing clash between a wounded Al Gharafa and a confidence-boosted Al Shamal SC. Al Gharafa arrive under severe pressure: four group matches played, just a single point to show, three defeats and a defence repeatedly breached — 12 goals conceded already. Their recent sequence reads badly on paper, with heavy reversals including a 4-0 loss to Al Ahli and a 0-3 reverse to Al Sailiya. Home numbers offer little comfort either; they have no clean sheets and have shipped seven goals in their own stadium across the campaign. Even the flashes of resilience that saw a 3-2 away success earlier this season are now drowned out by a pattern of inconsistent performances and defensive vulnerability.

Al Shamal, by contrast, come into this tie riding a wave. Their group tally sits healthier: five points from four games, and their latest result was emphatic — a 5-0 rout of Al Markhiya that showcased attacking potency. Across their recent formline they have turned draws into momentum, producing a run heavy on unbeaten results and demonstrating a greater balance between attack and defence. Statistical indicators underline their offensive intent: far more total shots and shots on target than their hosts, a superior corners average and a goalkeeper who has already maintained two clean sheets in the campaign. Their past meeting with Al Gharafa ended goalless earlier in the season, but form since then suggests a different script this time.

Tactical outlook and likely narrative

Expect Al Shamal to take the initiative. They generate more sustained attacking pressure and arrive with renewed belief from the five-goal statement of intent. Al Gharafa will be forced to chase the game at some stage, which could open up spaces for the visitors to exploit. Defensively fragile at home and porous in recent outings, Al Gharafa are vulnerable to quick transitions and a high volume of shots. This match therefore leans toward an away side that is sharper in front of goal and steadier at the back than the hosts’ current standard.

Betting suggestion After weighing form, recent results and match-day context, the clearest single-market selection is the 1X2 market: back Al Shamal SC to win. Their attacking surge and Al Gharafa’s defensive woes point strongly to an away victory in this encounter.