Qatar's Mutaz Essa Barshim competes in the men's high jump event during the IAAF Diamond League in Shanghai, China yesterday. Barshim cleared 2.33m to win.
Feared Al Rayyan striker Rodrigo Tabata credited his team's brave show in the second half for the side's impressive 3-1 win over Qatar Stars League (QSL) champions Lekhwiya.
Tabata yesterday fired two goals as Al Rayyan beat Lekhwiya 3-1 to reach the Emir Cup final.
In a feisty contest, Tabata found the net twice (81 and 90+1) after Musab Kheder opened the scoring for the former champions in the 65th minute.
For Lekhwiya, the defending Emir Cup champions, the only goal was scored by Youseff Msekni in the 78th minute at the Al Sadd Stadium.
"It was a great match. I am glad we have reached the final," Tabata said after being named the Man of the Match.
"We were playing against a strong team and to see us play so well, it makes me happy.
"What makes me happy is the way we played in the second half. That performance in the second half is what got the momentum our way," the Brazilian-born forward said.
When asked about his form this season, Tabata said it was not possible to show scoring form in every game.
"You see, you can't play well in every game. You can't score in every game but you can try to be the best. That's what I do. I am a good player when my team does well. When I get good support from my team-mates, I do well," Tabata said.
"Today I got great support and I did really well. I would also like to mention that I have great support from my family, especially from my wife. She gives her wholehearted support," the Qatar national team striker pointed out.
In the final, Al Rayyan will meet the winner of today's second semi-final between Al Sadd and El Jaish which will be played at Al Sadd Stadium.
The Emir Cup final will be played on May 19, the final day of the football season in Qatar.
