Ebrahimi’s Late Penalty Earns Al Shamal Draw Against Qatar SC

In a thrilling Qatar Stars League (QSL) encounter on October 7, 2023, Omid Ebrahimi’s penalty in stoppage time secured a 1-1 draw for Al Shamal against Qatar SC at Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium in Doha. The match featured intense competition, with both teams striving to maintain their unbeaten records in the league.

Qatar SC took the lead in the 58th minute when an own goal by Mouafak Awad redirected Eisa Palangi’s cross into the net. Despite this setback, Al Shamal pressed for an equaliser, demonstrating resilience and determination. The pivotal moment came when Baghdad Bounedjah was fouled by Serigne Fallou Diouf, leading to a penalty awarded after a review by VAR. Ebrahimi stepped up to convert the spot-kick with poise, ensuring both teams would leave the field with a point.

Match Highlights and Impact

The draw allows Al Shamal to remain at the top of the QSL standings with 14 points, just ahead of Qatar SC on goal difference. Both teams are now unbeaten after six matches, showcasing their competitive edge in the early stages of the season.

From the outset, the match was high-paced. Al Shamal initiated strong attacks, with Omar Mohammed making a significant run to challenge Qatar SC’s goalkeeper, Ali Nader, who skillfully blocked the initial effort. Bounedjah also came close, sending a low shot narrowly wide of the goal, while teammate Alex Collado forced Nader into action again with a powerful attempt just before halftime.

After Qatar SC’s opening goal, Al Shamal intensified their assault. Their efforts nearly paid off when Jeison Ceron had a dangerous free-kick saved by Nader. Eventually, Ebrahimi’s late intervention ensured a critical point for Al Shamal, reflecting the team’s fighting spirit.

Al Sailiya Secures First Win Against Al Arabi

In a separate match earlier at Al Bayt Stadium, Al Sailiya achieved their first victory of the season, thrashing Al Arabi 4-0. Khalid Ali was the standout performer, netting two goals in the first half, with strikes in the 35th minute and deep into stoppage time.

Following Ali’s contributions, Youssef Snana extended the lead to 3-0 shortly after the break, with Mohamed Benyettou sealing the rout just two minutes later. Despite dominating possession, Al Arabi failed to capitalize on their opportunities, leaving them frustrated.

Expressing his satisfaction, Khalid stated, “I’m very happy with our first win. We’ve worked hard and deserved better results earlier. This gives us confidence, and I believe the future will be better.” Despite the victory, Al Sailiya remains at the bottom of the table but is now just one point behind both Al Arabi and Al Shahania.

The QSL now enters a break, with matches set to resume on October 17, offering teams a chance to regroup and strategize for the upcoming challenges.