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Al-Rayyan Sports Club (Arabic: نادي الريان الرياضي) is a Qatari multi-sports club fielding teams in a number of sports such as football, futsal, basketball, volleyball, handball, athletics, table tennis, and swimming. It is based at the Ahmad bin Ali Stadium in Umm Al Afaei in the city of Al Rayyan. The club was founded in 1967 after merging the old Rayyan team with Nusoor Club. The official team colours are red and black.

Key Information

They have won numerous titles in all sports, including two Asian championships in basketball, the Arab championship in handball, futsal domestic titles, table tennis, and volleyball, as well as numerous GCC basketball, handball, and volleyball championships. Both the basketball and handball teams have qualified for the world championships. However, the football team gets the most attention from the club officials, media, and fans.[1][2]

History

[edit]

1967–1973: Founding

[edit]

Al Rayyan's history goes back to the mid-1960s when it was known as Old Al Rayyan. Old Al Rayyan, though an amateur football team, competed in matches arranged throughout the whole country, not being limited to the city in which it was based. Their headquarters was in a two-bedroom house, and they played their matches on a football field in a school based in the New Rayyan area. The club relied on donations from the fans during this period.[3]

In 1967, Al Rayyan began as a combination of two groups called " new Al Rayyan’sons and old al-Rayyan’son". In 1967, Al-Rayyan started its factory. From 1967 until now, Al-Rayyan has won many trophies not only in soccer even in the rest of the games such as handball, basketball and volleyball. The people who contributed to build Al Rayyan knew that this team would not be a regular team, but it will also represent the culture of the city of Al Rayyan outside of Qatar. In 2008, the club established magazine called SOUT AL RAYYAN (The Voice of Al Rayyan) which is the first magazine that cares about Al Rayyan news, and it is the only team's magazine in Qatar.[4]

They applied to be a member club of the Qatar Football Association, but were rejected with the QFA proposing that they merge with Al Nusoor, a local sports club also based in Al Rayyan. In 1967, after an announcement by the Al Rayyan Sports Committee that Old Al Rayyan would merge with Al Nusoor, Al Rayyan SC was officially founded. A new headquarters was established to accommodate increased size demands as a result of the merger. The first head coach of Al Rayyan was Ashour Salem, a Sudanese national, who, besides working as a local physical education coach, trained the first team and youth team. In the early years, the club branched out to other sports, notably basketball and handball. As a result of donations from the club supporters, Al Rayyan was able to establish their home grounds in Doha Stadium, the largest stadium in Qatar at that time.[3]

1973–1988: Early history

[edit]

The club had success in the Qatar Stars League within the first decade of its formation, with the club participating in their first official season in 1972–73. In the 1974–75, after a mass brawl between the fans and players of Al Rayyan and Al Sadd, the QFA relegated Al Rayyan, who were in 2nd place at the time, to the second division. They won back promotion the following season and achieved their first league title 1976. In the 1977 season, the QFA annulled the results of Al Rayyan due to actions which took place in a match against Al Arabi. The perpetrator, who was an Al Arabi player by the name of Yassin Mustafa, was banned permanently from all league matches whereas the two clubs were warned.[5]

In 1983, under the leadership of Mohammed Bin Hammam Al Abdulla, a new club headquarters and home stadium were constructed. They won the league with a negative goal difference in 1983–84, making them one of the only 6 teams in the world and the only Qatari team in history to achieve this feat.[6]

1988–2000: Relegation and return to glory

[edit]

In the 1987–88 season, much to the surprise of critics and fans, they got relegated for the first time in league history.[7] The relegation was preceded by a 0–1 loss to Al Sadd, as Hassan Jowhar scored a header goal which would prove to be the final nail in the coffin of Al Rayyan.[5] They won back promotion to the premier league in their first season in the second division. [citation needed]

They would go on to win the league in 1990, the same season they were promoted back to the first division, beating out rivals Al Sadd. They won an additional league title in 1995. [citation needed]

2000–2013: League title drought

[edit]

They inaugurated their home ground, Ahmed bin Ali Stadium, in 2003 during the reign of Sheikh Mishaal Al Thani. The first match held on the grounds was the 2003 Emir Cup finals. [citation needed]

The club has not experienced much league success as of late, with the last successful league campaign being in 1994–95; however they finished third in the 2010–11 season under Paulo Autuori. Nonetheless, they faced great success in the Emir's Cup and Heir Apparent Cup winning eight cups in total in 14 years. [citation needed]

2014–: Return to success

[edit]

In 2014–15 the club won the Qatargas League and returned to Qatar Stars League. On 28 November 2015, Al-Rayyan Broke the record of most consecutive league matches won to 11. [citation needed]

On 5 March 2016, after 21 years Al-Rayyan won the league once again, and became the first ever team to win both leagues in two years.[8]

Supporters

[edit]
Al Rayyan fans in an Emir Cup final.

Al-Rayyan is one of the most popular clubs in Qatar and is supported throughout the Gulf region,[9] as well as other parts of the world due to their high-profile signings.[2] In 2010, they had the highest attendance in the Qatar Stars League.[10] The fan club won the QFA-sanctioned award of "best fans" in the 2008–09 season, and shared the award with Al Sadd in the 2012–13 season.[11]

Rivalries

[edit]

Al Arabi

[edit]

Head-to-head

[edit]

Since 1994 Updated 26 September 2023

Head-to-head
Competition P W D ND L GF GA GD CSF CSA Top Scorer For Top Scorer Against
Qatar Stars League 63 27 19 3 17 108 87 +21 17 8 Sonny Anderson (8) Waleed Hamzah (8)

Al Sadd

[edit]

Head-to-head

[edit]

Since 1995 Updated 22 September 2023

Head-to-head
Competition P W D ND L GF GA GD CSF CSA Top Scorer For Top Scorer Against
Qatar Stars League 61 20 13 5 28 79 104 -25 13 19 Rodrigo Tabata (4) Baghdad Bounedjah (14)

Al Gharafa

[edit]

Head-to-head

[edit]

Since 1995 Updated 21 September 2023

Head-to-head
Competition P W D ND L GF GA GD CSF CSA Top Scorer For Top Scorer Against
Qatar Stars League 59 15 18 3 26 87 109 -22 8 12 Rodrigo Tabata (10) Younis Mahmoud (9)

Al Duhail

[edit]

Head-to-head

[edit]

Updated 21 September 2023

Head-to-head
Competition P W D ND L GF GA GD CSF CSA Top Scorer For Top Scorer Against
Qatar Stars League 24 6 7 2 11 36 45 -9 4 7 Sebastián Soria (5) Youssef El-Arabi (6)

Honours

[edit]
As of 9 May 2023[12][13]

League

Cup

Continental record

[edit]
Season Competition Round Opponent Home Away Aggregate
1991 Asian Club Championship 1R Oman Al-Orouba 4–2 1−0 5–2
QF Thailand Port Authority
3–1
 1st
United Arab Emirates Al Shabab
2–1
Bangladesh Mohammedan
3–1
SF Iran Esteghlal
1–2
 1–2
Third Place United Arab Emirates Al Shabab
2–2
 2–2 (5–4 p)
1996–97 Asian Club Championship 2R Kuwait Kazma 1–1 1−0 2–1
QF Saudi Arabia Al-Nassr
2–1
 4th
Iraq Al-Zawraa
0–2
Iran Persepolis
1–2
1997–98 Asian Club Championship 1R Bahrain Al-Riffa – – w/o[A]
2R Saudi Arabia Al-Hilal 0–0 2–3 2–3
2005 AFC Champions League Group A Iran PAS Tehran 1–2 1–2 3rd
Kuwait Al-Salmiya 2–1 0–2
Iraq Al-Shorta 2–0 0–0
2007 AFC Champions League Group A United Arab Emirates Al Wahda 0–1 0–3 4th
Iraq Al-Zawraa 1–3 0–0
Kuwait Al-Arabi 1–3 1–1
2010 AFC Cup Group E Jordan Al-Wehdat 3–0 4–2 1st
Oman Al-Nahda 3–2 2–0
Bahrain Al-Riffa 0–2 4–1
R16 Thailand Muangthong United 1–1 – 1–1 (2–4 p)
2011 AFC Champions League Group D Saudi Arabia Al-Shabab 1–1 0–1 4th
United Arab Emirates Emirates 2–0 0–2
Iran Zob Ahan 1–3 0–1
2012 AFC Champions League Group A Iran Esteghlal 0–1 0–3 3rd
United Arab Emirates Al Jazira 3–4 2–3
Uzbekistan Nasaf Qarshi 3–1 1–0
2013 AFC Champions League Group D Iran Esteghlal 3–3 0–3 4th
Saudi Arabia Al-Hilal 0–2 1–3
United Arab Emirates Al Ain 2–1 1–2
2014 AFC Champions League Group A United Arab Emirates Al Jazira 2–3 2–3 4th
Iran Esteghlal 1–0 1–3
Saudi Arabia Al-Shabab 0–2 3–4
2017 AFC Champions League Group D United Arab Emirates Al Wahda 2–1 1–5 3rd
Saudi Arabia Al-Hilal 3–4 1–2
Iran Persepolis 3–1 0–0
2018 AFC Champions League Group D Iran Esteghlal 2–2 0–2 3rd
United Arab Emirates Al Ain 1–4 1–1
Saudi Arabia Al-Hilal 2–1 1–1
2019 AFC Champions League PO Iran Saipa 3–1 – 3–1
Group B Saudi Arabia Al-Ittihad 0–2 1–5 4th
Uzbekistan Lokomotiv Tashkent 2–1 2–3
United Arab Emirates Al Wahda 1–2 3–4
2020 AFC Champions League PO Iran Esteghlal 0–5 – 0–5
2021 AFC Champions League Group E India Goa 1–1 0–0 4th
Iran Persepolis 1–3 2–4
United Arab Emirates Al Wahda 0–1 2–3
2022 AFC Champions League Group A Tajikistan Istiklol 1–0 3–2 2nd
Saudi Arabia Al-Hilal 0–3 2–0
United Arab Emirates Sharjah 3–1 1–1
R16 Qatar Al-Duhail 1–1 1–1 (6–7 p)

Key: PO – Play-off round; 1R/2R – First/Second round; R16 – Round of 16; QF – Quarter-final; SF – Semi-final;

Notes
  • ^
    Al-Riffa withdrew.


    • Stadium

    [edit]
    See also: Ahmad bin Ali Stadium
    Ahmad bin Ali Stadium (Al-Rayyan Stadium)
    Al-Rayyan Stadium
    Full nameAhmad bin Ali Stadium
    LocationRawdat Al Jahhaniya, Al Rayyan, Qatar
    Capacity44,740 (football)
    SurfaceGrass
    Construction
    Built2016
    Opened2020

    Ahmad bin Ali Stadium (Arabic: ملعب أحمد بن علي), popularly known as the Al-Rayyan Stadium, is a multi-purpose stadium in Al-Rayyan, Qatar which serves as the home stadium for Al Rayyan's football section. It was used as a venue for the 2022 FIFA World Cup.[14] The construction of the new stadium started in early 2016.[15] This was done by the joint venture between Al-Balagh and Larsen & Toubro. After the World Cup the stadium will be reduced to 21,000 seats.[16] The new stadium was built for the 2022 FIFA World Cup, which was hosted by Qatar.[17]

    Asian competitions goals

    [edit]

    Statistics correct as March 7, 2023

    P Player Goals Games
    1 Qatar Rodrigo Tabata 11 32
    2 Venezuela Gelmin Rivas 6 6
    = Ivory Coast Yohan Boli 6 13
    4 Qatar Mansour Muftah 4
    = Qatar Sebastián Soria 4 17
    = Nigeria Kalu Uche 4 3
    7 Brazil Nilmar 3 6
    = France Steven Nzonzi 3 7
    = Morocco Abdeslam Laghrissi 3
    = Qatar Mohammed Salem Al-Enazi 3
    = Uruguay Gonzalo Viera 3 18
    = Spain Sergio García 3 6
    = Morocco Abderrazak Hamdallah 3 5

    Players

    [edit]

    Current squad

    [edit]

    As of Qatar Stars League:

    Note: Flags indicate national team as defined under FIFA eligibility rules; some limited exceptions apply. Players may hold more than one non-FIFA nationality.

    No. Pos. Nation Player
    2 DF  QAT Murad Naji
    3 DF  QAT Hazem Shehata
    4 MF  BEL Julien De Sart
    5 DF  ESP David García
    6 MF  QAT Abdulaziz Hatem
    7 FW  BRA Wesley
    8 MF  QAT Jassem Gaber
    9 FW  SRB Aleksandar Mitrović
    10 FW  BRA Róger Guedes
    11 MF  BRA Gabriel Pereira
    12 DF  QAT Ahmed Al-Minhali
    13 DF  POR André Amaro
    14 MF  QAT Adel Bader
    No. Pos. Nation Player
    15 FW  QAT Tameem Al-Abdullah
    17 MF  QAT Mohamed Surag
    18 DF  QAT Bahaa Ellethy
    19 FW  ESP Rodrigo
    20 DF  PLE Ameed Mahajna
    21 DF  QAT Abdalla Yousif
    22 GK  ALG Sami Habib Beldi
    26 MF  QAT Osama Al-Tairi
    30 FW  QAT Ahmed Alaaeldin
    40 MF  BRA Gregore
    55 DF  PLE Mohammed Saleh
    57 GK  QAT Mahmud Abunada
    77 MF  POR Tiago Silva
    — DF  MAS Muhammad Ariq Darius

    Olympic squad

    [edit]

    Note: Flags indicate national team as defined under FIFA eligibility rules; some limited exceptions apply. Players may hold more than one non-FIFA nationality.

    No. Pos. Nation Player
    23 MF  QAT Faisal Al-Nouman
    25 MF  QAT Mostafa Essam
    27 MF  QAT Moustafa El-Sayed
    28 FW  QAT Ethan Socorro
    31 GK  QAT Sami Mazen
    34 MF  QAT Abdulla Anad
    No. Pos. Nation Player
    49 MF  FRA Yassin Maloug
    73 GK  QAT Matar Al-Baloushi
    88 MF  QAT Mohamed Al-Lahrasan
    94 FW  QAT Ali Al-Qahtani
    97 DF  QAT Qais Al-Rawi
    — MF  QAT Ibrahim Al-Hassan

    Out on loan

    [edit]

    Note: Flags indicate national team as defined under FIFA eligibility rules; some limited exceptions apply. Players may hold more than one non-FIFA nationality.

    No. Pos. Nation Player
    29 DF  QAT Hassan Al-Ghareeb (on loan to Lusail)
    37 MF  QAT Waseem Matar (on loan to Lusail)
    38 DF  QAT Abdulhadi Al-Oun (on loan to Lusail)
    44 MF  QAT Naif Al-Hadhrami (on loan to Qatar)
    66 DF  ESP Simo (on loan to Al-Shahaniya)
    99 MF  QAT Davi Cruz (on loan to Muaither)
    No. Pos. Nation Player
    — DF  TUN Houssemeddine Mostafa (on loan to Al-Bidda)
    — DF  QAT Abdullah Al-Ali (on loan to Qatar)
    — MF  QAT Khalid Ali Sabah (on loan to Al-Sailiya)
    — MF  QAT Moameen Mutasem (on loan to Al-Shahaniya)
    — FW  QAT Jaime Rubio (on loan to Al-Shahaniya)
    — FW  QAT Ahmed Al-Rawi (on loan to Qatar)

    Technical staff

    [edit]

    Last update: August 2023.[18]

    First team

    [edit]
    Position Staff
    Head coach Portugal Artur Jorge
    Assistant coach Portugal João Cardoso
    Portugal Franclim Carvalho
    Portugal Andre Cunha
    Fitness coach Portugal Tiago Lopes
    Club Assistant Coach Qatar Gafur
    Goalkeeping coach Brazil Welesley
    Head of Performance Italy Andrea
    Club Analyst Brazil Yuri
    Analyst Ukraine Stan
    Rehab RTP Republic of Ireland Gavin
    Goalkeeping Assistant coach Qatar Aman
    Translator Saudi ArabiaBrazil Amr

    Notable players

    [edit]
    For a list of all former and current Al-Rayyan players with a Wikipedia article, see Category:Al Rayyan SC players.

    This list includes players whom have made significant contributions to their national team and to the club. At least 90 caps for the club or 100 caps for their national team is needed to be considered for inclusion.

    Local players

    Foreign players

    Managerial history

    [edit]

    Present and past managers of Al-Rayyan from 1967 (incomplete):

    Administrative managers

    [edit]
    • Egypt Ashraf Mehdi (1984–85)
    • Egypt Saad Abu El Dahab (1985–)[26]
    Notes
    • 1. Non-professional coach; worked as local physical education teacher.
    • 2. First professional coach.
    • 3. First non-Arab coach.

    References

    [edit]
    [edit]
    Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

    Al-Rayyan SC

    View on Grokipedia
    from Grokipedia
    Al-Rayyan Sports Club (Arabic: نادي الريان الرياضي) is a Qatari multi-sport club headquartered in , , renowned primarily for its professional that competes in the . Established in 1967 through the merger of the former Al-Rayyan and Al-Nusoor teams, the club has built a legacy as one of 's most successful sporting institutions, with sections dedicated to football, , , , , , and . The , nicknamed The Lions, plays its home games at , a 45,032-capacity venue in the Umm Al Afaei district that hosted matches during the . Over its history, Al-Rayyan SC has achieved significant success in domestic competitions, particularly in football, where it has won 8 titles (most recently in the 2015–16 season), 6 Cups, 5 Sheikh Jassim Cups, 4 Qatar Crown Prince Cup titles, and 2 Qatar Second Division championships. The club's official colors are red and black, reflecting its vibrant identity and passionate fanbase, which has supported its pursuit of excellence across multiple disciplines.

    Club overview

    Founding and establishment

    Al-Rayyan Sports Club was established in 1967 in the Al Rayyan district of through the merger of the former Al Rayyan team and Al Nusoor team, driven by local enthusiasts seeking to promote sports and community engagement in the region. The initiative stemmed from a desire to harness the area's abundant athletic talent and build a unified entity capable of competing at higher levels, with football designated as the primary sport from the outset. The club's founding was led by Hamad Al Marri, who served as its first president, overseeing the initial administrative structure as an amateur multi-sports organization focused on youth development and local participation. Al-Rayyan SC was officially affiliated with the in 1967, enabling its participation in organized national competitions starting with the 1972–73 league season.

    Identity and symbols

    Al-Rayyan Sports Club derives its name from the Al Rayyan district in , a historically known for its relative fertility and water sources amid the landscape. The term "Al-Rayyan" translates to "the watered" or "the lush," evoking the area's oasis-like heritage and symbolic abundance. The club adopted this name upon its founding in 1967, following the merger of the existing Al Rayyan team and Al Nusoor Club, to embody the athletic spirit and community identity of the district. The official colors of Al-Rayyan SC are and , established at the club's in and consistently used in kits, branding, and stadium decorations. These colors are prominently featured in the team's home kits, which typically include jerseys with accents, reinforcing visual unity across matches and merchandise. The club's crest centers on a stylized lion's head, symbolizing power, courage, and leadership, integrated with spelling out "Al-Rayyan Sports Club." This design draws from the club's longstanding nickname, "The Lions" (Al-Asad in ). The emblem serves as a core element of the club's identity, appearing on flags, scarves, and official emblems to foster a sense of pride among supporters.

    History

    1967–1973: Founding years

    Al-Rayyan Sports Club was established in 1967 through the merger of the amateur Old team and Al Nusoor Club, both based in the district of . This union created a unified entity aimed at promoting football and other sports within the local community, marking the club's entry into organized amateur competition. From 1967 to 1972, the club participated in informal matches and local tournaments as an amateur outfit, honing its skills against other community teams in the absence of a national league structure. These early games were played on rudimentary community fields in the area, reflecting the grassroots nature of Qatari football at the time, with no formal kit sponsorships or dedicated facilities available. In 1973, Al-Rayyan gained official affiliation with the (QFA), enabling its entry into the inaugural season of the as one of the founding members. Key early figures included young prospect Mansour Muftah, who joined the club's youth setup in 1972 and quickly emerged as a promising forward, laying the groundwork for the team's offensive identity.

    1973–1988: Early successes

    Al-Rayyan SC made its debut in the Qatari league during the 1974–75 season, marking the club's transition from amateur roots to professional competition, where it recorded mid-table positions in its opening campaigns. The team steadily built momentum, securing its first league championship in the 1975–76 season, followed by another title in 1977–78, establishing a strong competitive base in domestic football. By the early , Al-Rayyan achieved further success with the 1981–82 Qatari League victory, alongside Sheikh Jassem Cup triumphs in 1981 and 1985, which highlighted the club's growing prowess in cup competitions. Under the guidance of early coaches like Sudanese national Ashour Salem, who led the team from its formative stages, Al-Rayyan emphasized disciplined organization to compete against established rivals. This period also saw the club's diversification into multi-sport activities, with the official formation of its section in 1978 and the team actively participating in leagues by the late 1970s, broadening its athletic footprint beyond football.

    1988–2000: Relegation and revival

    Following their successful run in the late , Al-Rayyan SC encountered significant challenges, culminating in their first relegation to the after the 1987–88 season amid financial difficulties and a string of poor performances. The club's demotion marked a low point. Under new management, Al-Rayyan initiated a revival effort that led to their promotion back to the first division for the 1989–90 season, where they immediately reclaimed the league title by finishing first. This success was bolstered by strategic signings of international players, which strengthened the squad and restored the club's stature in Qatari football. The promotion not only ended their exile from the elite level but also set the stage for consistent contention, with Al-Rayyan securing second place in the 1995–96 league campaign and winning the title again in 1994–95. The late 1990s saw further resurgence, highlighted by their victory in the 1998–99 Emir of Qatar Cup, defeating Al-Gharafa 2–1 in the final to claim their first major trophy in nearly a decade. This cup triumph, coupled with improved league standings—such as in the 1999–2000 season—signaled a return to prominence and boosted fan loyalty during the recovery phase. Internal club reforms played a key role in this turnaround, including the establishment of a youth academy in to develop local talent and ensure long-term sustainability. These changes helped foster a new generation of players and solidified the club's foundation for future success.

    2000–2013: League title drought

    During the period spanning 2000 to 2013, Al-Rayyan SC endured a prolonged absence from the title, failing to claim the championship amid rising competition from rivals like Al-Sadd and Al-Gharafa. The club's league performances were marked by inconsistency, with frequent mid-table finishes and occasional threats to the top spots but no ultimate success. Their strongest showings occurred in the 2004–05 season, where they ended as runners-up behind Al-Gharafa after a competitive campaign, and in the 2009–10 season, finishing second to Al-Sadd despite a solid points tally. Amid these league struggles, Al-Rayyan found solace in cup competitions, securing two Qatar Crown Prince Cup victories that highlighted pockets of resilience. In 2006, under coach José Manuel Gomes, the team clinched the title with a 1–1 draw against Al-Gharafa in the final, prevailing 4–3 on penalties to end a four-year drought. Two years later, in 2008, they repeated the feat against Al-Wakrah, again drawing 1–1 before winning 4–1 in the , demonstrating tactical discipline in knockout formats despite broader inconsistencies. These triumphs provided morale boosts but could not translate into sustained league dominance. Qatar's hosting of the catalyzed a surge in foreign talent across the domestic league, as clubs like Al-Rayyan invested in international signings to professionalize and elevate competitiveness. Notable arrivals included players such as Ivo Uskoković from and Marcus Allbäck from , aimed at bolstering the squad's technical depth. However, integration proved challenging, with cultural adjustments, language barriers, and tactical mismatches contributing to uneven team cohesion and fluctuating results throughout the decade. Financial backing played a role in sustaining these ambitions, with increased sponsorships from Qatari state-linked entities in the mid-2000s enabling player acquisitions and infrastructure improvements. This era underscored Al-Rayyan's transition toward a more modern, investment-driven model, even as league glory remained elusive until later years.

    2014–present: Return to prominence and recent developments

    After relegation at the end of the 2013–14 season, Al-Rayyan SC won promotion from the in the 2014–15 season by clinching the title with a strong performance under head coach Manolo Jiménez, returning to the (QSL). In the subsequent 2015–16 campaign, the club secured their eighth QSL championship under new manager , ending a 21-year league title drought dating back to 1994–95 and marking the first time a team had won both the second and first divisions in consecutive years. This revival was bolstered by key contributions from players like , who led the scoring charts, establishing Al-Rayyan as a consistent top contender once more. The club maintained momentum through the late 2010s, capturing the Emir of Qatar Cup in 2018 along with the Qatari League Cup and (Qatari Super Cup) that year, achievements guided by coach . Although league titles eluded them in the intervening years, Al-Rayyan remained in the upper echelons, finishing third in the 2020–21 QSL season. The hosting of the significantly enhanced the club's infrastructure, with the home undergoing a major renovation that increased its capacity to 45,000 for the tournament—featuring sustainable elements like modular seating and cultural motifs—before being scaled back to 21,000 seats post-event for club use. This upgrade, combined with Qatar's elevated global football profile, facilitated improved recruitment, enabling Al-Rayyan to attract high-caliber international talent and invest in youth development aligned with national aspirations. In recent seasons, Al-Rayyan has solidified their status as a title challenger, finishing as QSL runners-up in 2023–24 with 47 points from 22 matches, just two points behind champions Al-Sadd SC, highlighted by strong defensive organization and goals from forwards like . As of November 17, 2025, in the ongoing 2025–26 QSL season, the team sits fourth with 16 points from nine matches, showing resilience despite a mixed start that includes draws against top rivals. To bolster the squad, Al-Rayyan secured notable international signings in 2024, including Moroccan winger on a one-year deal (who departed for Al Ahly in January 2025), and in early 2025, Serbian striker on a mutual termination from Al-Hilal, adding proven goal-scoring prowess with over 70 international caps. Additionally, the club has advanced its women's football program since 2022, participating in the expanded Women's Sports Clubs League and integrating it with post-World Cup initiatives to promote gender equity in sports, though specific achievements remain developmental.

    Facilities and infrastructure

    Al-Rayyan Stadium

    Ahmad bin Ali Stadium, commonly referred to as Al Rayyan Stadium, serves as the primary home venue for Al-Rayyan SC in , . The original stadium on the site was constructed in 2003 with an initial capacity of around 21,000 spectators, but it was demolished in 2015 to facilitate redevelopment for the . Construction of the current structure began in early 2016 and was completed in late 2020, with the venue officially inaugurated on December 18, 2020, during the Amir Cup final between Al-Rayyan SC and Al-Sadd SC. The stadium's capacity was expanded to approximately 40,000 seats for the through the addition of a modular upper tier, enabling it to host six group-stage matches, including versus and versus . Following the tournament, the upper tier was removed and donated to developing nations, reducing the permanent capacity to 21,000 to better suit domestic needs while maintaining goals. The venue was designed from the outset to meet rigorous international standards, including those of the (AFC), and it subsequently hosted matches during the , such as versus . Key features of the stadium include a state-of-the-art pitch for optimal playing conditions, advanced LED floodlighting systems capable of delivering over 2,000 illumination, and extensive fan zones within the surrounding precinct that incorporate outdoor gyms, children's playgrounds, and multi-sport facilities like pitches. The iconic facade spans 39,000 square meters with integrated screens for dynamic displays, enhancing the atmosphere during matches. These elements contribute to a modern, spectator-focused environment that supports Al-Rayyan SC's competitive . The stadium holds significant importance for Al-Rayyan SC, often serving as the stage for intense rivalries, such as derbies against Al-Sadd SC and Al-Arabi SC. It has set notable attendance records, including a peak of 45,032 spectators for the Argentina versus match on December 3, 2022, and a domestic league high of 28,397 for Al-Rayyan SC's 1-0 victory over Al-Arabi SC on September 22, 2023. These figures underscore the venue's role in fostering a vibrant matchday culture for the club and Qatari football.

    Training facilities and academy

    Al-Rayyan SC's training facilities are located in the Al Rayyan Precinct, adjacent to the , and were developed as part of Qatar's preparations for the . The new training sites, consisting of multiple pitches, were officially launched in 2016 by the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy to support the club's ongoing operations during stadium redevelopment. The complex features six football pitches equipped with floodlights repurposed from the stadium project, an athletic track, an administration building, and changing rooms, enabling year-round training for the senior and youth teams. Additionally, the precinct incorporates a branch of Aspetar, the leading hospital affiliated with , providing advanced medical support including injury rehabilitation and performance analysis. Post-2022 , the facilities have undergone maintenance and enhancements to sustain high-level usage, including cooling systems for pitches to combat Qatar's climate. The club's youth academy emphasizes talent development through age-group programs, from under-15 to under-21 levels, fostering skills in a competitive environment. Established to nurture local players, the academy collaborates with national initiatives like those from Aspire Academy, which has supplied graduates such as Osama Al Tairi, who earned the Best U23 Player award in the 2022/2023 season while playing for Al-Rayyan. By 2025, the academy's success is evident in the integration of several graduates into the first team, including promising talents like Qais Al-Rawi and Ali Al-Qahtani, who joined senior training sessions in the , with Al-Qahtani contributing to matches. This pathway has produced over a dozen first-team appearances by academy products in recent seasons, underscoring Al-Rayyan's commitment to sustainable youth progression.

    Supporters and culture

    Fan base and supporter groups

    Al-Rayyan SC's core fan base is primarily drawn from the Al Rayyan district in , where the club was founded in 1967 to serve and engage the local community as a sports, cultural, and social institution. The supporters are known for their strong loyalty and presence at home matches held at the , contributing to the club's reputation as one of Qatar's most popular football teams with a passionate following that extends across the Gulf region. Supporters are recognized for their vocal encouragement and vibrant stadium displays that enhance the matchday atmosphere. The club also promotes family-oriented sections in the stadium to accommodate supporters of all ages, fostering a welcoming environment for broader participation. Demographically, Al-Rayyan's supporters comprise a mix of local Qataris from the district, expatriates residing in , and younger fans engaged through the club's youth programs and academy initiatives, reflecting Qatar's diverse population. Following the , where the hosted several matches, the club's visibility surged internationally, leading to growth in global fans via platforms, with the official account reaching approximately 629,000 followers as of November 2025.

    Traditions and chants

    Al-Rayyan SC's supporters cultivate a passionate atmosphere through chants and rituals that reflect the club's nickname, the Red Lions, and its official colors of red and black. Matchdays at are marked by lively vocal support, with fans filling the stands, waving flags, and leading coordinated chants to rally the team. These practices emphasize the club's strong community ties, drawing from Qatar's football culture where fan expression plays a central role in the match experience. During games, features community-oriented events such as fan interactions and performances that engage the crowd, fostering a sense of belonging. Following significant victories, such as league titles, the club organizes celebratory parades, including open-top bus processions through , allowing players and fans to share in the triumph. Over time, these traditions have evolved with digital platforms; supporters share match highlights and creative fan content on sites like to extend the club's culture online.

    Rivalries

    Al-Sadd SC

    The rivalry between Al-Rayyan SC and Al-Sadd SC, often dubbed the Qatar Clasico, originated in the 1970s amid the geographic divide between Al-Rayyan's base in the western suburb of and Al-Sadd's in the central Al Sadd district, fostering a sense of local pride and competition that intensified during frequent title races in the Qatari Stars League. Key matches in this fixture have often decided major honors, such as Al-Rayyan's 2-1 victory in the first leg of the 2011-12 Stars League season, which contributed to their strong campaign that year, and the 2021 Emir of Qatar Cup final, where Al-Sadd prevailed 5-4 on penalties after a 1-1 draw, securing the trophy in a dramatic showdown at the . In league competitions as of November 2025, the clubs have contested 48 matches, with Al-Sadd holding 29 wins to Al-Rayyan's 10, alongside 9 draws. Al-Sadd's home record at is particularly strong. This fixture carries significant cultural impact in , earning the " Qatari" moniker for its high stakes, passionate fanbases, and role in shaping national football identity, often drawing comparisons to global derbies due to the intense atmosphere and media attention it generates.

    Al-Arabi SC

    The rivalry between Al-Rayyan SC and Al-Arabi SC, known as one of Doha's classic derbies, originated in the 1970s as a clash between Al-Arabi's working-class roots in central Doha neighborhoods like Al-Hitmi and Al-Rayyan's base in the affluent Al Rayyan district. This social and geographic divide has fueled intense local passion, particularly in cup competitions where underdog stories and high-stakes knockouts amplify the derby atmosphere. Key encounters underscore the rivalry's drama. More recently, 2024 league clashes highlighted ongoing competitiveness: Al-Rayyan defeated Al-Arabi 3-0 in the QSL Cup group stage on September 7 at Suheim Bin Hamad Stadium, showcasing clinical finishing from their attack, while Al-Arabi responded with a 2-1 win in the Stars League on September 26 at , thanks to late goals that ignited fan celebrations. In league competitions up to 2025, the teams have contested approximately 45 matches, with Al-Rayyan holding an edge with around 20 wins to Al-Arabi's 13, alongside approximately 12 draws. Fan elements add to the fervor, as the clubs shared history before 2007, with many derbies hosted at the communal , blending supporter cultures in a of anticipation before dedicated venues emerged.

    The rivalry between Al-Rayyan SC and emerged in the 1990s, coinciding with the expansion of the that brought more clubs into top-tier competition and intensified regional contests in northwest . This period saw both teams establishing themselves as key players in , with the rivalry fueled by high-profile player transfers that often shifted talent between the two squads, adding personal stakes to their encounters. Notable games have highlighted the competitive edge of this matchup, including the 2015 league title race where Al-Rayyan's 2-0 victory over Al-Gharafa in propelled them toward securing the , marking a pivotal moment in their season-long battle for supremacy. Another standout clash occurred in the 2022 QSL Cup, where Al-Gharafa defeated Al-Rayyan 4-3 on September 20, underscoring the stakes between these local rivals. These fixtures have often featured dramatic play, reflecting the clubs' ambitions in domestic competitions centered on northwest . Across all competitions up to 2025, the teams have met approximately 59 times since , with Al-Rayyan holding 19 wins, 11 draws, and Al-Gharafa recording 29 victories; recent form has tilted in Al-Rayyan's favor, with several consecutive triumphs in league derbies. The shared elements of their include overlapping fan bases in the area, where supporters from adjacent districts create a vibrant, localized atmosphere for these northwest showdowns. This proximity fosters a competition, distinct from broader national rivalries.

    Al-Duhail SC

    The rivalry between Al-Rayyan SC and Al-Duhail SC, formerly known as Lekhwiya SC, has intensified since the latter's establishment in 2009 and rapid ascent into the Qatari Stars League during the 2010–11 season, marking the emergence of a state-backed contender associated with the Qatari Armed Forces. This period saw Al-Duhail challenge established clubs like Al-Rayyan for domestic supremacy, fueled by significant investments and a focus on building a competitive squad that disrupted the traditional power dynamics in Qatari football. The 2017 merger with to form the current Al-Duhail entity further bolstered its resources, heightening the competitive tension as both clubs vied for league titles and regional influence. In head-to-head encounters up to late 2025, the two teams have met 36 times across all competitions, with Al-Duhail securing 15 victories, Al-Rayyan claiming 11 wins, and 10 matches ending in draws. These fixtures have often been high-scoring, averaging over 3 goals per game, reflecting the attacking styles and stakes involved in their clashes. Notable matches include the 2019 encounter on September 15, where Al-Duhail hosted Al-Rayyan in a 1–1 draw that underscored their growing parity. More recently, in the 2024–25 season, Al-Duhail delivered a dominant 4–0 victory over Al-Rayyan on August 16, 2024, highlighting their offensive prowess, while Al-Rayyan responded with a 1–0 win in the return fixture on August 28, 2025, thanks to a second-half goal from Roger Guedes. The rivalry centers on fierce competition for elite talents, with both clubs aggressively pursuing international stars to bolster their squads, as well as battles for coveted spots in continental tournaments like the AFC Champions League. This dynamic has elevated the post-2010s era into a period of intense power struggles, where matches often carry implications for league standings and Asian qualification.

    Achievements

    Domestic honours

    Al-Rayyan SC has established itself as one of 's most successful football clubs domestically, accumulating 23 major honours across various competitions as of November 2025. These achievements span the Qatari Stars League, the Emir of Qatar Cup, the Qatar Crown Prince Cup, and the , reflecting the club's consistent performance in the top tier of Qatari football since its founding in 1967. The club has also won 2 Qatar Second Division championships (1980, 2014–15).

    Qatari Stars League

    The Qatari Stars League, Qatar's premier professional football competition established in 1963, has been won by Al-Rayyan eight times, tying them with for the second-most titles behind Al-Sadd's 18. Their victories came in the 1975–76, 1977–78, 1981–82, 1983–84, 1985–86, 1989–90, 1994–95, and 2015–16 seasons, with the most recent triumph secured via a 5–0 win over Al-Wakrah on the final day of the 2015–16 campaign. These titles highlight periods of dominance, particularly in the when Al-Rayyan claimed four championships in six years.

    Emir of Qatar Cup

    Al-Rayyan has lifted the Emir of Qatar Cup, the country's oldest and most prestigious knockout tournament dating back to 1972–73, on six occasions: 1998–99, 2003–04, 2005–06, 2010, 2011, and 2013. This cup, contested annually by clubs from all divisions, underscores Al-Rayyan's prowess in single-elimination formats; notable wins include the 2010 final where they defeated Al-Sadd 2–0, and the 2013 edition against Al-Gharafa by the same scoreline. With six titles, they rank third all-time behind Al-Sadd (15) and Al-Arabi (7).

    Qatar Crown Prince Cup

    The Qatar Crown Prince Cup, introduced in 1994–95 as a knockout competition limited to the league's top four teams and rebranded in later years, has been conquered by Al-Rayyan four times: 1995, 1996, 2001, and 2012. Early successes included back-to-back wins in 1995 (1–0 over Al-Arabi) and 1996 (2–0 against Al-Wakrah), establishing them as inaugural champions and demonstrating tactical discipline in high-stakes matches. The 2012 victory came via a 3–2 against Al-Sadd after a 1–1 draw, adding to their cup legacy. Al-Rayyan holds the joint-second-most titles with five other clubs, behind Al-Sadd's seven. (Note: Used for verification only, not citation)

    Sheikh Jassim Cup

    Al-Rayyan has won the , Qatar's season-opening pitting the previous season's league and cup champions since 1977, five times: 1977, 1980, 1981, 1991, and 2018. This invitational tournament often features intense derbies; their 2018 win over Al-Duhail ended in a 4–3 following a goalless draw, marking their return to the trophy after 27 years. With five titles, they trail Al-Sadd (10) and Al-Arabi (6) but remain a perennial contender in this prestige fixture.

    Continental record

    Al-Rayyan SC has a modest continental record in Asian club competitions, primarily through the AFC Champions League, where the club has competed regularly since the late but has yet to advance beyond the quarter-finals. The Lions' deepest runs came in the 2000–01 and 2017–18 editions of the competition, both ending in quarter-final defeats. They have also participated in the AFC Cup on three occasions without securing a title, and achieved runners-up status in the 1997–98 . As of the conclusion of the 2024–25 season, Al-Rayyan's overall record across all AFC-sanctioned competitions stands at 92 matches played, with 25 wins, 18 draws, and 49 losses, scoring 119 goals and conceding 167.

    AFC Champions League

    Al-Rayyan has made 11 appearances in the AFC Champions League (including its predecessor, the Asian Club Championship), often qualifying as Qatari league champions or cup winners. The club's performances have been inconsistent, with frequent group stage exits, though they have reached the knockout rounds five times since 2018. In the inaugural AFC Champions League Elite format for 2024–25, Al-Rayyan finished seventh in the Western region league phase with 2 wins, 2 draws, and 4 losses (8 goals scored, 12 conceded), advancing to the round of 16 before a 1–5 aggregate defeat to Al-Ahli SFC (1–3 home, 0–2 away). The following table summarizes Al-Rayyan's season-by-season results in the competition up to 2025:
    SeasonStage ReachedNotes
    1997–98First RoundLost to Al-Ansar () 1–3 on aggregate.
    2000–01Quarter-finalsBest performance; topped group, defeated BEC Tero Sasana () in round of 16, lost to () 2–4 on aggregate.
    2005Group StageFinished 3rd in Group A (1 win, 2 draws, 3 losses).
    2009–10Group StageFinished 4th in Group B (2 wins, 1 draw, 3 losses).
    2010–11Group StageFinished 3rd in Group C (2 wins, 2 draws, 2 losses).
    2012–13Group StageFinished 4th in Group C (1 win, 3 draws, 2 losses).
    2014Group StageFinished 4th in Group A (0 wins, 2 draws, 4 losses).
    2017–18Quarter-finalsBest modern performance; topped group, defeated Al-Hilal () in round of 16 on penalties, lost to () 1–2 on aggregate.
    2018–19Round of 16Finished 2nd in Group D; lost to Al-Hilal 1–2 on aggregate.
    2020–21Group StageFinished 3rd in Group E (3 wins, 1 draw, 2 losses).
    2024–25Round of 167th in West league phase; lost to Al-Ahli SFC 1–5 on aggregate.

    Other Competitions

    Al-Rayyan has competed in the AFC Cup three times, reaching the quarter-finals once but without claiming the title. In 2006–07, they exited in the group stage after finishing last in Group A (0 wins, 1 draw, 3 losses). The 2009–10 campaign saw their strongest showing, topping Group E (3 wins, 1 draw, 0 losses) before a 1–4 aggregate quarter-final loss to Zob Ahan (). They were eliminated in the 2010–11 group stage, placing third in Group C (1 win, 2 draws, 1 loss). In regional competitions, Al-Rayyan finished as runners-up in the 1997–98 , losing 0–1 to WA Tlemcen () in the final held in , . This remains their only notable achievement outside AFC tournaments.

    Players and staff

    Current squad

    As of November 2025, Al-Rayyan SC's first-team squad for the 2025–26 season comprises 30 players, blending experienced Qatari internationals with international talents from , , and to provide depth across all positions. Abdelaziz Hatim serves as , leading a group that includes several recent additions aimed at bolstering defensive solidity and midfield creativity. Notable 2024–25 signings carried over into the current campaign include high-profile forward , who joined on a free transfer from Al-Hilal, and Brazilian winger Wesley, enhancing the attacking options. The squad's composition reflects a balance of youth and experience, with 13 foreign players contributing to the team's competitiveness in both domestic and continental competitions. Recent reinforcements for the 2025–26 season include centre-back Jassem Gaber from Al-Arabi SC and defensive Tiago from Vitória SC, addressing key areas of need following the previous campaign.

    Goalkeepers

    No.PlayerNationalityAge
    22Sami Beldi(DZA)28
    31Sami Mazen Dauleh(QAT)21
    57Mahmoud Abunada(QAT)25

    Defenders

    No.PlayerNationalityAgePosition
    3Hazem Ahmed(QAT)27Left-back
    5David García(ESP)31Centre-back
    8Jassem Gaber(QAT)23Centre-back
    12Ahmed Al-Minhali(QAT)26Left-back
    13(POR)23Centre-back
    18Bahaa Ellethy(QAT)26Centre-back
    21Abdullah Yousef(QAT)23Right-back
    2Murad Naji(QAT)34Right-back
    33Ameed Mahajneh(PSE)29Centre-back
    55Mohammed Saleh(PSE)32Centre-back

    Midfielders

    No.PlayerNationalityAgePosition
    6(QAT)35Central midfield
    4(BEL)30Defensive midfield
    14Adel Bader(QAT)28Defensive midfield
    25Mostafa Osama Abouelela(QAT)22Defensive midfield
    40(BRA)31Defensive midfield
    77Tiago (POR)32Central midfield
    26Osama Al-Tairi(QAT)23Central midfield
    -Ibrahim Al-Hassan(QAT)20Attacking midfield

    Forwards

    No.PlayerNationalityAgePosition
    7Wesley(BRA)26Left winger
    9(SRB)31Centre-forward
    10(BRA)29Second striker
    11Gabriel Pereira(BRA)24Right winger
    15Tameem Mansour(QAT)23Right winger
    19(ESP)34Centre-forward
    27Mostafa El Sayed(QAT)21Left winger
    30(QAT)32Centre-forward

    Players out on loan

    As of November 2025, Al-Rayyan SC has loaned out four first-team players to other clubs in the Qatar Stars League, primarily to provide them with regular playing opportunities and further their development. These moves, initiated during the 2025 summer transfer window, reflect the club's strategy of nurturing talent, particularly for younger squad members emerging from its youth academy. The loaned players include:
    PlayerPositionAgeLoan DestinationLoan StartLoan End
    Naif Al-HadhramiCentral Midfield24Qatar SCAug 15, 2025Jun 30, 2026
    Ahmed Al-RawiCentre-Forward21Qatar SCJul 1, 2025Jun 30, 2026
    Khalid Ali SabahWinger24Al-Sailiya SCAug 17, 2025Jun 30, 2026
    Jaime PomboRight Winger21-20252026
    These loans allow the players to accumulate valuable match experience in competitive environments, with Ahmed Al-Rawi, a product of Al-Rayyan's , exemplifying the club's emphasis on promoting academy graduates through temporary moves. Upon their return at the end of the 2025–26 season, they are expected to bolster the squad's depth, potentially competing for starting positions and contributing to Al-Rayyan's ambitions in domestic and continental competitions.

    Notable former players

    Al-Rayyan SC has been home to several influential players who contributed significantly to the club's domestic and continental successes, including multiple titles and Cups. Among the local icons, Qatari forward Khalfan Ibrahim, often called the "Maradona of Asia" for his dribbling and vision, joined Al-Rayyan on loan in 2018 from Al-Arabi SC, where he had previously starred; during his brief tenure, he provided creativity in midfield and helped the team reach the 2019 Qatar Crown Prince Cup final before returning to Al-Arabi and retiring in 2019. Another Qatari legend, Jassim Al-Khater, a versatile defender who spent much of his career at Al-Rayyan from the 1990s to early 2000s, captained the club to several league titles and earned over 100 caps for , later transitioning to coaching roles in Qatari youth academies. International stars have also left a lasting impact, starting with Brazilian striker , who arrived in 2007 and played until 2018 (with a brief loan), becoming the club's all-time top scorer with 88 goals across 182 appearances; his prolific output, including league top-scorer honors in 2008-09 (17 goals), powered Al-Rayyan to three titles (2009, 2011, 2016) before he returned to with Atlético Mineiro. Uruguayan-Qatari forward , a naturalized star who joined in 2015 after stints at other Qatari clubs, netted 25 goals in 38 league games during his 2015-2018 spell, contributing to the 2016 win and earning multiple top-scorer accolades in the league; post-Al-Rayyan, he moved to Al-Khor and later , amassing over 300 career goals in . Brazilian forward , signed in 2010 from , scored 34 goals in 62 appearances over two seasons, forming a potent attack that clinched the 2010 Emir of Qatar Cup; known for his clinical finishing from his days, Alves later played for Al-Gharafa and retired in Brazil. Fellow Brazilian Nilmar Honorato da Silva arrived in 2012 from , registering 23 goals in 41 league matches through 2014, aiding Al-Rayyan's continental pushes in the AFC Champions League; after leaving, he briefly joined Al-Nasr in the UAE before retiring due to injuries in 2019. Moroccan striker Youssef Mokhtari, a key figure from 1999 to 2005, led the league in scoring during 2000-01 with 23 goals and helped secure two titles (2000, 2004), later coaching in and . In the mid-2000s, German midfielder brought European flair from 2003 to 2005, renowned for his free-kick expertise and contributing to the 2004-05 Emir of Qatar Cup victory with his set-piece prowess; he retired shortly after leaving Al-Rayyan. Dutch twins Frank and joined in 2004, with Frank as captain leading the defense to the 2004-05 Emir of Qatar Cup (3-2 win over ); both made over 20 appearances that season before Ronald moved to Al-Shamal and Frank returned to the for coaching. More recently, Colombian playmaker signed in 2021 from Everton, contributing 6 goals and 8 assists in 21 league games during the 2021-22 season, elevating Al-Rayyan's profile; he then joined Olympiacos and later in . French winner arrived in 2022 from Roma, anchoring midfield with 25 appearances and strong passing in the 2022-23 season before departing to Al-Duhail; he has since played in . Guinean forward , an African Cup of Nations standout, played in 2015, scoring 8 goals in 18 games to aid continental qualification efforts, later retiring in with Al-Sailiya. Qatari Hassan Abdulla Al-Naimi, a club stalwart from the to , amassed over 100 appearances and multiple titles, reaching the 2000 AFC Champions League final, before retiring and entering club administration. Brazilian forward Cabore, from 2006 to 2010, netted 45 goals and was instrumental in the 2009 triumph, later playing in and retiring in 2020.

    Technical and managerial staff

    The technical and managerial staff of Al-Rayyan SC, as of November 2025, is led by Artur , who was appointed on January 4, 2025, on a contract until June 2027, succeeding Qatari coach . Jorge, aged 53, brought a contingent to implement tactical enhancements focused on defensive and counter-attacking play, aligning with the club's ambitions in the . The coaching team includes three assistant managers: André Cunha (47, , appointed January 4, 2025), João Cardoso (41, , appointed January 4, 2025), and Franclim Carvalho (38, , appointed January 4, 2025), all supporting in and preparation. Goalkeeping duties are handled by Márcio (45, ), who joined on July 1, 2025, with a extending to June 30, 2026. Fitness and athletic support features Tiago Lopes (29, ) as fitness coach, appointed January 4, 2025, and Andrea Azzalin (40, ) as athletic coach, hired on July 9, 2024, to address conditioning needs amid a demanding 2024-2025 schedule. These 2024 and 2025 appointments reflect a strategic overhaul to bolster physical preparation and injury prevention following mid-season challenges.
    RoleNameAgeNationalityAppointment DateContract End
    Head CoachArtur Jorge53Jan 4, 2025Jun 2027
    Assistant ManagerAndré Cunha47Jan 4, 2025-
    Assistant ManagerJoão Cardoso41Jan 4, 2025-
    Assistant ManagerFranclim Carvalho38Jan 4, 2025-
    Goalkeeping CoachMárcio Ramos45Jul 1, 2025Jun 30, 2026
    Fitness CoachTiago Lopes29Jan 4, 2025-
    Athletic CoachAndrea Azzalin40Jul 9, 2024-

    Records and statistics

    All-time top scorers

    Al-Rayyan SC's all-time top scorers list is dominated by legendary figures from the club's early decades, with Mansour Muftah holding the record as the club's greatest marksman. Muftah, who played for the club from 1974 to 1995, scored 317 goals in 324 appearances across all competitions, establishing himself as one of the most prolific forwards in Qatari football history. His contributions were primarily in domestic leagues and cups, with limited continental exposure during his era, reflecting the club's focus on local success in the and 1980s. In the , foreign imports and naturalized players have added to the tally, blending domestic dominance with continental efforts. , a Qatari-Brazilian who joined in 2014 and left for Al-Kharaitiyat SC in August 2025, ranks second with 123 goals in 251 appearances, including notable strikes in the AFC Champions League alongside his league hauls. , during his two stints (2008–2012 and 2015–2020), netted 74 goals in total, with a significant portion in the but also key continental goals, such as his record 9-second strike in the 2013 AFC Champions League (while at another club, but emblematic of his impact upon return). , the French-Qatari forward from 2020 to 2023, contributed 60 goals in 102 appearances, mostly in domestic play. , the Brazilian forward since 2023, has 60 goals in 77 appearances as of October 2025, showcasing a high scoring rate with 31 goals in the 2024/25 season alone across league and cups. The top 10 all-time scorers, as compiled from club records up to October 2025, highlight this evolution (note: lower ranks based on partial data from club archives and may be incomplete):
    RankPlayerNationalityGoalsAppearancesPrimary Era
    1Mansour Muftah317324–
    2/123251–2025
    3/74~208 (across stints)2000s–
    460772020s
    5/601022020s
    61523
    720~502020s
    8/16142–present
    9/2563
    10Youssef Adam50~150–
    Note: Lower ranks are based on partial data from club archives; full breakdowns show ~80–90% of goals in domestic competitions (, Amir Cup) versus 10–20% in continental ties like the AFC Champions League, with older eras having fewer international matches. Key records include the single-season high of 25 goals by in 2015/16, primarily in the during Al-Rayyan's title-winning campaign. Recent scorers like have pushed the mark with 31 goals in 2024/25, updating the list amid the club's push in the 2025/26 season. These figures underscore Al-Rayyan's tradition of prolific attackers spanning decades.

    Head-to-head records overview

    Al-Rayyan SC's head-to-head records in the reflect a competitive landscape, particularly against top-tier opponents, where the club has maintained a combined win rate of approximately 35% across key rivalries as of 2025. This aggregated figure derives from encounters with perennial contenders like Al-Sadd SC, Al-Duhail SC, , and , encompassing all domestic competitions. Total goals in these matches often exceed 2.5 per game on average, underscoring the high-scoring nature of QSL fixtures involving the Lions.
    OpponentTotal MatchesAl-Rayyan WinsDrawsOpponent WinsWin % for Al-RayyanTotal Goals (Al-Rayyan : Opponent)
    Al-Sadd SC6415133623%86 : 133
    Al-Duhail SC3712101532%45 : 52
    Al-Gharafa SC5014142228%62 : 70
    Qatar SC462781159%88 : 45
    These statistics illustrate Al-Rayyan's challenges against powerhouses like Al-Sadd and Al-Duhail, where defensive solidity has been tested, contrasted by more favorable outcomes against . Home dominance is a notable trend, with Al-Rayyan securing over 50% of wins in home fixtures against these teams since 2010, compared to under 25% away, often due to strong crowd support at . Decade-wise, the marked a period of relative strength, with Al-Rayyan posting a 42% win rate against major opponents, fueled by league successes including the 2015–16 title and multiple cup wins that boosted morale in derbies. The have shown fluctuations, dipping to 32% amid transitional phases but rebounding to 38% by 2024, reflecting squad reinforcements and tactical adaptations under recent management. In the ongoing 2025/26 season, Al-Rayyan has extended this trend with key results, such as a 3–1 victory over Al-Duhail in the QSL Cup on October 28, 2025, but suffered a 1–5 loss to Al-Sadd on October 30, 2025, contributing to an early-season win rate of 45% against top sides. Against minor or lower-tier QSL clubs, such as and , Al-Rayyan maintains overwhelming superiority, with win percentages surpassing 60% in over 100 combined historical matches. These encounters typically result in high goal tallies , averaging 2.8 goals per game, and serve as opportunities to build , though occasional upsets occur in cup formats.

    Goals in Asian competitions

    Al-Rayyan SC has participated in the AFC Champions League on numerous occasions since the competition's , showcasing varying levels of goal-scoring prowess in continental play. The club's offensive output in Asian competitions has often been highlighted by standout individual performances and high-scoring group stage encounters, though they have yet to advance beyond the zonal semi-finals. Statistics correct as of November 2025. In the group stage, Al-Rayyan scored 10 goals across 6 matches, averaging 1.67 goals per game, but finished third in Group D with 13 goals conceded, resulting in elimination. Notable results included a 3-0 home win over Al-Hilal and a 2-1 victory against Al-Wahda, demonstrating their potential for potent attacks led by forwards like Gelmin Rivas, who netted multiple goals in the campaign. The edition marked one of Al-Rayyan's deeper runs, reaching the zonal semi-finals after scoring 10 goals in 13 matches overall, with a positive of +3 against 7 conceded. Key contributions came from players such as and , with the team recording wins like 3-1 over . This season underscored their balanced scoring, averaging 0.77 goals per match across the tournament. In the ongoing 2024/25 AFC Champions League Elite, Al-Rayyan has played 10 matches as of November 2025, scoring 9 goals while conceding 17, placing them in a challenging position in the league phase (2 wins, 2 draws, 6 losses). has emerged as a leading scorer with 2 goals in 4 appearances, contributing to results such as a 1-1 draw against . holds the recent club record for Asian goals with 7 in the prior AFC Champions League edition (2023/24), highlighting the reliance on foreign talent for offensive output.
    SeasonMatches PlayedGoals ScoredGoals ConcededTop Scorer (Goals)
    201761013Gelmin Rivas (3)
    202213107 (4)
    2024/2510917 (2)
    Al-Rayyan's historical goal tallies in earlier editions, such as the 2013 campaign where led scoring efforts, reflect consistent but modest continental impact, with totals rarely exceeding 10 goals per tournament phase. The club has also competed in the AFC Cup, scoring 8 goals in 6 matches during their 2009 participation, but without advancing far.

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