Alkass Digital
Al Sadd made their intentions clear in the Expo Stars League this season by continuing their triumphant run while Al Gharafa notched up their first win of the season yesterday.
At Khalifa International Stadium, Al Sadd recorded a commanding 4-2 win over Al Ahli, with goals from Amin Hazbawi, Akram Afif, Youssef Abdelrazzak and Gonzalo Plata.
Hazbawi set the stage with a seventh-minute opener before Afif's doubled the lead in the 26th minute from the spot.
Abdelrazzak's impressive strike in the 62nd minute seemed to have put the game to bed for The Wolves but Al Ahlipulled one back through Naim Al Sliti who stabbed home from the penalty spot in the 76th minute following the expulsion of Al Sadd's defender Ahmed Suhail.
However, new recruit Plata sealed the deal for Al Sadd with a stunning goal in the 79th minute before Al Sliti struck once again from the spot kick in the 82nd minute.
With this resounding victory, the former champions Al Sadd made it two wins from two games to sit atop the league, with defending champions Al Duhail, Al Rayyan.
Al Gharafa's Yacine Brahimi controls the ball. Pic: Hussain Sayed
Earlier, Yacine Brahimi netted a brace to propel Al Gharafa to victory in an electrifying clash against Al Markhiya. The win at Al Bayt Stadium elevated Al Gharafa’s points tally to 4 while Al Markhiya’s disappointing second loss meant they are yet to earn a point.
Brahimi bagged the opener with a sublime finish just past the hour mark. The Algerian turned his marker before unleashing a delighful effort into the top corner with the goalkeeper well beaten.
The Cheetahs' captain sealed victory seven minutes from time from the spot after Alaeeldin was brought down in the box.
Despite the victory, Al Gharafa missed several opportunities to add to their tally. Yohan Boli and his teammates wasted several goal-scoring chances, while Al Markhiya showcased exceptional resilience and came close to turning the tables in their favor several times.
Today, Al Arabi face Umm Salal in their second match of the season, at Al Thumama Stadium, while Al Wakrah face Al Shamal at Al Janoub Stadium in the last two games of the week.