Al Wakrah players celebrated a thrilling victory over Al Sadd in a penalty shootout following a 2-2 draw. The match took place in Doha, Qatar, at the Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium under heavy rain. Al Wakrah managed to overcome a two-goal deficit with Gelson Dala scoring a crucial equalizer in stoppage time. Goalkeeper Omair Al Sayed emerged as the hero for Al Wakrah in the penalty shootout, blocking key shots from Al Sadd players to secure their spot in the Qatar Cup final for the first time in history.
The match started with Al Sadd taking the lead through Akram Afif in the 12th minute, followed by Gonzalo Plata’s goal to put them 2-0 ahead. Al Wakrah staged a comeback with Ayoub Assal and Dala scoring vital goals to level the score. Dala’s last-minute equalizer took the game to a penalty shootout where Al Sayed’s heroics led the Blue Waves to a historic victory. Coach Ali Rahma Al Marri praised his players for their fight and determination throughout the match.
In the second semi-final, Al Rayyan overcame Al Gharafa with Achraf Bencharki scoring a brace. Seydou Sano had put Al Gharafa in the lead before Bencharki’s two goals turned the game in Al Rayyan’s favor. Bencharki’s winning goal came in the 87th minute, securing their spot in the final. The Moroccan forward expressed his happiness for scoring crucial goals for his team, emphasizing their fighting spirit and potential to win titles. The final between Al Wakrah and Al Rayyan is set to take place at Abdullah Bin Khalifa Stadium on Saturday.
Overall, both semi-final matches provided thrilling moments and displayed the determination of the teams to secure a spot in the Qatar Cup final. Al Wakrah and Al Rayyan will now face off in what promises to be a blockbuster final, with both teams eager to claim the title. The players’ performances and the exciting moments in the semi-finals have set the stage for an intense final showdown. Fans can expect a thrilling and competitive match as the two top teams in Qatar football battle for ultimate glory.