Al Sadd Go Second With Comeback Win Over Qatar SC

Doha: Defending champions Al Sadd produced a strong second-half comeback to overcome Qatar SC 3-2 in a thrilling clash to climb to second in the Qatar Stars League standings at the Suheim Bin Hamad Stadium yesterday.

The victory, Al Sadd's seventh of the season, took their points tally to 23 from 12 matches, five behind Al Gharafa, who are at the helm. Al Rayyan also have 23 points, but are behind the Wolves on goal difference.

Qatar SC made a dream start when Brazilian striker Joao Pedro opened the scoring in the third minute. Pedro added the finishing touches to an assist by Naif Al Hadrami from the centre of the box, giving the hosts an early lead.

Despite Qatar SC pushing hard to retain the lead, Al Sadd's star striker Akram Afif struck in the 31st minute to level the scores. Qatar SC's Franco Russo tried to head the ball out of danger after intercepting a long pass by Paulo Otavio, but Afif was well placed inside the box to receive the same, and he shot into the net with ease.

Just before the half-time break, Qatar SC restored the lead. In the 44th minute, Niall Mason scored from close range following a corner, following an assist by Nizar Al Rashdan. The goal was initially reviewed by VAR before being awarded, sending Qatar SC into halftime with a 2-1 advantage.

Upon resumption, Al Sadd pushed hard for a leveller. Firmino reduced the deficit in the 50th minute, finishing from the right side of the six-yard box after a well-directed pass from Afif. Rafa Mujica earned Al Sadd the lead three minutes later, striking from the centre of the box to make it 3-2.

Qatar SC pushed forward in search of an equaliser in the closing stages but were unable to break through Al Sadd's defence.

Earlier, relegation-threatened Al Shahania held Al Duhail in a nil-all draw at Al Khor Stadium. The result meant Al Duhail stayed at sixth, while Al Shahania's woes continue at the bottom of the table.

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