Palestine Stuns Qatar with Last-Minute Own Goal in Arab Cup Opener

In a surprising turn of events, Palestine defeated two-time Asian champions Qatar 1-0 in their FIFA Arab Cup Group A opener on March 15, 2024. The match, held at Al Bayt Stadium in Doha, witnessed a dramatic last-minute own goal by Qatar’s Sultan Al Brake, sealing a historic victory for the Palestinian team.

Match Overview

With a crowd of 61,475 spectators, predominantly Qatari fans, the atmosphere was electric. Despite dominating possession, Qatar’s hopes were dashed in the fifth minute of stoppage time. Al Brake inadvertently redirected a cross from Palestinian substitute Ahmad Alqaq into his own net, leaving goalkeeper Mahmoud Abunada with no chance to respond.

Palestine’s resilience paid off as they absorbed relentless pressure from Qatar throughout the match. They executed a late surge that culminated in a corner kick, ultimately leading to the decisive goal. This unexpected loss marks a significant achievement for Palestine, who now shares the top of the group with Syria, following their own victory over Tunisia.

Key Moments in the Match

Qatar started strong, with Ahmed Fathy nearly scoring early on. However, it was Ahmad Al Mannai’s shot from outside the box that first tested Palestinian goalkeeper Rami Hamada. Captain Akram Afif was pivotal in creating opportunities, but the Qatari side struggled to breach Palestine’s steadfast defense.

The match’s tempo slowed due to injuries, forcing Qatar’s coach, Julen Lopetegui, to make an early substitution. Assim Madibo had to leave the field after a challenge, with Issa Laye stepping in. Despite maintaining pressure, Qatar could not capitalize, and the teams went into halftime at a stalemate.

After the break, Edmilson Junior’s introduction added vigor to Qatar’s attack. A close chance for Al Brake went wide, while Edmilson himself kept Hamada busy with shots from close range. The game intensified around the 60th minute, prompting Lopetegui to make a double substitution, but Qatar still found it challenging to convert chances into goals.

A potential penalty was ruled out after a VAR review determined that Afif had not been fouled in the box. As the clock wound down, both teams pressed for the winner, with Palestine countering effectively. Oday Dabbagh’s attempt from the right side kept Qatar alert, while Muntari’s header from an Edmilson cross was spectacularly saved by Hamada.

In the closing minutes, Palestine escalated their offensive efforts. The match reached its climax when Al Brake’s unfortunate own goal transformed the evening, securing a vital win for Palestine.

Palestine’s next challenge will be against Tunisia at Lusail Stadium on March 18, 2024. Meanwhile, Qatar will aim to regroup before facing Syria at Khalifa International Stadium on the same day.