Akram Afif lifts the Super Shield as Al Sadd's players and officials celebrate their triumph.
Doha, Qatar: Roberto Firmino scored a brace, including a last-gasp winner, as Al Sadd edged Shabab Al Ahli 3-2 in a thrilling final to lift the Qatar-UAE Super Shield yesterday.
The Wolves secured a much-needed victory for the home fans at Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium after Al Gharafa and Al Duhail suffered defeats in their Super Cup and Challenge Shield finals respectively.
“The match was intense and exciting from both sides, and Shabab Al Ahli played at a high level, forcing us to fight until the very last moment,” Al Sadd captain Hassan Al Haydos said after lifting the Super Shield.
“I believe team spirit and focus were the key to our success, especially after coming back to secure a 3-2 win. This title is the result of a collective effort, and we dedicate it to Al Sadd’s fans who have always supported us. We hope it will serve as strong motivation for our upcoming matches,” he added.
Roberto Firmino celebrates with the Super Shield
Qatari playmaker Akram Afif was also on target for Al Sadd, who rallied after Yuri Cesar put the visitors in front at the half-hour mark with a powerful shot from outside the box.
Al Sadd levelled in the 55th minute as Firmino converted a penalty with a clinical finish after Afif was fouled by Mateus Henrique Silva inside the area.
Afif then handed Al Sadd the lead in the 75th minute, finishing from close range after a precise cross from Pedro Miguel on the left flank.
However, Shabab Al Ahli restored parity just four minutes later through Mohammad Juma, who headed home with a rising effort.
The closing stages delivered thrilling action as Al Sadd pushed relentlessly for the winner. Afif came close late on, just missing the left post, before the decisive moment arrived in the sixth minute of stoppage time.
Following a brilliant spell of pressure in the final third, Mohamed Camara set up Firmino, who fired a left-footed shot that found the net despite getting a touch from the goalkeeper, sparking scenes of jubilation at the venue.
Al Sadd coach Roberto Mancini expressed his delight with the triumph.
Al Ahli players attend a training session ahead of their clash against Al Jazira.
“I am very happy for the team, the players, and the fans who attended and strongly supported us. We played a remarkable match and succeeded in our efforts. I am very happy with my first title with the team, and our goal is to continue working to win more titles,” he said.
CEO of the Qatari-UAE Super Cup Organizing Committee Mohammed Khalifa Al Suwaidi, Deputy CEO of UAE Pro League Jamal Al Marri, Vice President of Al Sadd Club Abdullah bin Hamad Al Attiyah, and Member of the Executive Committee of the Qatar Football Association Hassan Juma Al Mohannadi honoured the winners and the runners-up.
Al Ahli ready for
Al Jazira challenge
The Qatar-UAE Super Cup concludes today with Al Jazira hosting Al Ahli for Challenge Cup at Mohammed Bin Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi.
“The match will not be easy, but we will approach it with full focus in order to achieve victory and win the title,” Al Ahli coach Younes Ali said.
“Our preparations have been excellent for a match that promises to be tough and exciting for the fans. We will strive to deliver a high-level performance,” he added.
Al Ahli’s Julian Draxler echoed his coach’s sentiments, acknowledging the strength of the opposition.
“Facing Al Jazira is difficult because they are a strong team, but we will do everything we can to deliver a good performance and achieve victory to win the title,” he said.
“We represent Qatari football and our club in this challenge, and we are entering the match with strong ambition to win. We are determined to crown our efforts by lifting the trophy.”
