Qatar commenced their Asian Cup title defense in impressive fashion, securing a convincing 3-0 victory over Lebanon in the tournament’s opening match on Friday. Akram Afif, the team’s prized playmaker, shone with a remarkable brace, while Almoez Ali contributed a goal, setting the stage for a promising campaign.
The Lusail Stadium witnessed a spectacular opening ceremony, graced by the presence of Qatar’s ruler, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani. The dynamic duo of Afif and Ali then took center stage, ensuring the hosts began the tournament with three crucial points.
Afif’s breakthrough came just before halftime, capitalizing on a precise lay-off by Ali inside the box to break the deadlock and give Qatar a 1-0 lead. Ali, the top scorer in the 2019 edition, continued the momentum by doubling the lead in the 56th minute, connecting with Mohammed Waad’s well-placed cross from the left flank.
Despite Lebanon showing glimpses of threat on the counter-attack, Qatar’s defense stood firm, denying their Middle Eastern counterparts any breakthrough. Afif put the final stamp on the victory during stoppage time, capitalizing on a mishandled clearance and effortlessly maneuvering past a fatigued Lebanon defense before calmly slotting the ball into the net, sealing a comprehensive 3-0 win for the defending champions.
