Doha, Qatar – Al Arabi advanced to the quarter-finals of the QSL Cup after a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Qatar SC yesterday, following a 2-2 draw at Saoud Bin Abdulrahman Stadium. The match was a tense affair, ultimately decided 12-11 on penalties. Meanwhile, Muaither and Al Waab secured their spots in the next round with decisive wins in their respective playoff matches, setting the stage for a competitive quarter-final stage.
The QSL Cup serves as a crucial mid-season tournament for Qatar Stars League teams, providing an opportunity for competitive play and a pathway to further cup competitions. This year’s edition has already seen several closely contested matches, with the latest round of playoffs delivering plenty of excitement for fans.
Al Arabi Prevails in Penalty Thriller
Al Arabi, finishing fourth in the league phase with 19 points, initially fell behind to a 14th-minute goal from Yan Matheus of Qatar SC. However, they demonstrated resilience, leveling the score in the 57th minute through a penalty converted by Karl Toko Ekambi.
Qatar SC quickly responded, regaining the lead just a minute later with a goal from Joao Pedro. The game appeared headed for a narrow Qatar SC victory, but a late equalizer from Joao Pedro Darros in the second minute of stoppage time forced the match into a penalty shootout.
The ensuing shootout proved to be a test of nerves for both teams, with both sides displaying remarkable accuracy through the first 11 rounds. Ultimately, a missed penalty by Ibrahim Abdelhalim Masoud of Qatar SC allowed Al Arabi to clinch the 12-11 victory and progress to the quarter-finals.
In contrast to Al Arabi’s nail-biting win, Muaither and Al Waab enjoyed more comfortable paths to the last eight.
Muaither and Al Waab Secure Comfortable Victories
At Al Khor Stadium, Muaither defeated Al Kharaitiyat 2-0. Siriky Diabate opened the scoring in the 56th minute, and Etyan Morales added a second in the 76th minute to seal the win for Muaither, who finished third in the league phase with 20 points.
Al Waab also delivered a strong performance, defeating Mesaimeer 3-1 at Al Shamal Stadium. Mekki Mohsen gave Al Waab an early lead in the 3rd minute, followed by a goal from Ameer Fowadah in the 32nd minute. Baha Faisal extended the lead in the 69th minute before Mesaimeer managed a consolation goal through Mohammed Djenidi five minutes later.
Al Waab had secured fifth place in the league standings with 18 points, demonstrating consistent performance throughout the season. These victories highlight the competitive depth within the Qatar Stars League.
The quarter-final lineup is beginning to take shape, with Al Rayyan and Umm Salal already qualified after finishing in the top two positions of the league table. The remaining matches will determine the final four teams.
Today’s schedule includes Al Markhiya facing Al Khor at Abdullah Bin Khalifa Stadium, Al Sailiya taking on Al Bidda at Grand Hamad Stadium, and Al Shahania squaring off with Al Shamal at Hamad Bin Khalifa Stadium, all with simultaneous kick-offs. These matches are expected to be equally competitive, as teams vie for a spot in the semi-finals.
The exact dates for the quarter-final matches are yet to be announced, but are anticipated to be scheduled shortly. Fans will be watching closely to see which teams can maintain their momentum and advance towards the championship title. The outcome of these games will likely influence team strategies and player form heading into the latter stages of the QSL season.
