All pics from @QSL_EN on X
Doha: Al Sadd sealed a record-extending 19th Qatar Stars League title in fittingly dramatic fashion, edging Al Shamal 3-2 in a gripping final-day decider at Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium yesterday.
On a night that captured the essence of a season defined by tension, the defending champions looked in control early on. Akram Afif set the tone in the 20th minute before Roberto Firmino struck just two minutes later, sending the home crowd into celebration as Al Sadd surged into a commanding lead.
But this was never going to be straightforward as Al Shamal, chasing a historic first title, refused to fold.
Even after being reduced to 10 men following Abdessamed Bounacer’s red card early in the second half, they responded with remarkable resolve. Baghdad Bounedjah reignited the contest in the 65th minute, capitalising on a quick break to pull one back and shift momentum.
The response from Al Sadd was immediate. Paulo Otavio restored the two-goal cushion just three minutes later with a composed low finish, seemingly steadying nerves. Yet the drama was far from over.
Jeison Murillo’s penalty in the 85th minute ensured a tense finale, as Al Shamal threw everything forward in search of goals that could have rewritten history. But Al Sadd held firm, their experience proving decisive in the closing moments.
The final whistle triggered scenes of celebration, confirming a third successive title for Al Sadd and further cementing their dominance. Since the 2012-13 season, they have surrendered the league crown only once.
Al Sadd finished the season on 45 points, five clear of Al Shamal, with both sides securing qualification for next season’s AFC Champions League Elite – a fitting reward after a title race that went right down to the wire.
