Al Sadd claimed victory in the Qatar-UAE Super Shield yesterday, defeating Shabab Al Ahli 3-2 in a thrilling match at Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium in Doha, Qatar. A late brace from Roberto Firmino, including a goal in stoppage time, secured the Super Shield for the Qatari side, much to the delight of their home fans. The win provides a boost for Al Sadd following recent Super Cup and Challenge Shield defeats for other Qatari teams.
The match saw a back-and-forth exchange of goals, with Yuri Cesar initially putting Shabab Al Ahli ahead. However, Al Sadd responded strongly, fueled by the creativity of Akram Afif and the clinical finishing of Firmino. The victory marks a positive start for Al Sadd under the leadership of coach Roberto Mancini.
Al Sadd Secure Thrilling Super Shield Win
The game was tightly contested throughout, with both teams demonstrating attacking intent. Shabab Al Ahli took the lead in the 30th minute through a powerful strike from Yuri Cesar, putting pressure on the home side. Al Sadd, however, remained composed and sought to level the score.
Firmino equalized for Al Sadd in the 55th minute, converting a penalty awarded after Afif was fouled. This goal shifted the momentum, and Afif continued to be a key threat for Al Sadd. He then gave Al Sadd the lead in the 75th minute, capitalizing on a precise cross from Pedro Miguel.
Late Drama Decides the Contest
Shabab Al Ahli quickly responded, leveling the score at 2-2 just four minutes later with a header from Mohammad Juma. The final minutes were filled with tension as Al Sadd pushed for a winner. Afif came close to scoring, narrowly missing the post.
The decisive moment arrived in the sixth minute of stoppage time when Mohamed Camara set up Firmino, who fired home a left-footed shot that edged past the goalkeeper. The goal sparked jubilant celebrations among the Al Sadd players and supporters. Mancini expressed his happiness with the team’s performance and his first title with the club.
Al Sadd captain Hassan Al Haydos emphasized the importance of team spirit and focus in securing the victory. He dedicated the title to the loyal Al Sadd fans and expressed hope that it would motivate the team in upcoming matches. The win is a significant achievement for the club and a positive sign for Qatari football.
Meanwhile, the Qatar-UAE Super Cup continues today with the Challenge Cup match between Al Jazira and Al Ahli at Mohammed Bin Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi. Al Ahli coach Younes Ali stated his team is prepared for a difficult match against a strong opponent.
Al Ahli’s Julian Draxler echoed his coach’s sentiments, acknowledging Al Jazira’s strength but expressing his team’s determination to win. He highlighted the importance of representing Qatari football with ambition and striving to lift the trophy. The Challenge Cup promises to be another exciting encounter between teams from both nations.
Looking ahead, Al Sadd will aim to build on this Super Shield triumph and compete strongly in their domestic league and other regional tournaments. The performance of key players like Firmino and Afif will be crucial to their success. The outcome of the Al Jazira vs. Al Ahli match will determine the overall winner of the Qatar-UAE Super Cup, and further showcase the competitive spirit between the two footballing nations. The focus will now shift to Al Ahli’s preparation for their match and their pursuit of the Challenge Cup title.