From left: Al Sadd's Roberto Firmino, Akram Afif and Claudinho celebrate after the win.
Doha, Qatar: Al Sadd tightened the Qatar Stars League title race with a 3-1 victory over leaders Al Gharafa in a top-of-the-table clash at Thani bin Jassim Stadium yesterday, closing the gap at the summit of the standings.
The Round 14 encounter saw both sides share possession in a goalless first half despite multiple chances being created.
Upon resumption, Al Sadd struck twice in quick succession with Brazilian Roberto Firmino opening the scoring in the 47th minute. Giovanni Henrique doubled the advantage eight minutes later, putting the visitors firmly in control.
Al Gharafa then responded and reduced the deficit in the 65th minute when Ayoub Al-Alawi found the net, reigniting hopes of a comeback. The League leaders pressed for an equaliser in the closing stages, but it was Al Sadd who succeeded once again, when Akram Afif slotted home in the 5th minute of stoppage time to confirm crucial three points.
The victory lifted Al Sadd to 29 points, just two points behind Al Gharafa, who remain top with 31.
Earlier, Qatar SC secured a 3-1 victory over Al Ahli at Al Thumama Stadium.
Brazilian forward Joao Pedro was the hero for Qatar SC, scoring a brace, while Mohamed Emad Ayash added the opener as The Kings claimed their sixth win of the season which lifted their points tally to 20.
Ayash put Qatar SC in front in the 16th minute, rising highest to head home after the Al Ahli goalkeeper parried Niall Mason’s initial effort from a corner kick. The hosts carried their narrow advantage into the break following a competitive first half.
Qatar SC extended their lead shortly after the restart when Joao Pedro struck in the 48th minute. The Brazilian struck again in the 72nd minute to further disappoint Al Ahli.
Al Ahli managed a late consolation through Driss Fettouhi, who fired in a long-range effort in the 87th minute, but it did little to affect the outcome of the match.
The victory lifted Qatar SC’s tally to 20 points in seventh position, while Al Ahli remain on 15 points and ninth spot as the 14th.
