Doha: Two-time Asian champions Qatar were stunned 1-0 by Palestine in their FIFA Arab Cup Group A opener, conceding a last-minute own goal from Sultan Al Brake.
In front of 61,475 spectators, mostly Qatari fans creating a cauldron-like atmosphere at Al Bayt Stadium, the home side dominated possession but saw their evening end in heartbreak when Al Brake inadvertently deflected a cross from substitute Ahmad Alqaq into his own net in the fifth and final minute of stoppage time.
Palestine were rewarded for their resilience, absorbing Qatar’s pressure for most of the match and applying late pressing. They earned a last-gasp corner, which led to the decisive own goal, leaving goalkeeper Mahmoud Abunada with no chance despite an otherwise quiet evening.
Qatar created several opportunities, but coach Julen Lopetegui will demand better execution when his side returns to action against Syria on Thursday at Khalifa International Stadium.
The hosts started with a fast pace with Ahmed Fathy giving an early scare but he missed the target.
Mohammad Al Mannai brought goalkeeper Rami Hamada into action with a shot from outside the box.
Captain Akram Afif remained in the thick of action creating spaces but Qatar were unable to earn a breakthrough against stubborn Palestine defence.
The rhythm dropped due to injuries. Lopetegui was forced an injury change at the half-four mark with Assim Madibo failing to continue following a rash challenge with Issa Laye coming off the bench.
Lucas Mendes attempted from outside the box but Hamada was well positioned as ball remained in Palestine’s half the most but stalemate persisted at half-time.
Edmilson Junior replaced Mohammad Al Mannai at half-time, adding energy to Qatar’s attack. Al Brake had an early chance but his close-range touch from Edmilson’s cross went wide. Edmilson looked sharp, pressing high and testing goalkeeper Rami Hamada from close range.
Around the 60th minute, Lopetegui made a double substitution, bringing on Mohammed Muntari and Khaled Ali Binsabaa for Ahmed Alaaeldin and Mohamed Khaled.
A VAR review ruled out a penalty after Afif appeared to be brought down by Michael Termanini in the box. Afif later made a fine solo run but could not control the ball in the final moments.
Palestine threatened on the counter when substitute Oday Dabbagh shot from the right, forcing Qatar to stay alert. Muntari’s header from a precise Edmilson cross was brilliantly tipped over by Hamada as Qatar pressed to break the deadlock.
Palestine nearly scored with less than 15 minutes remaining, but Alqaq’s volley went high from a promising position.
Palestine intensified their play in the closing stages. In the fifth minute of added time, the drama peaked when Al Brake accidentally deflected the ball into his own net, gifting a memorable victory.
Palestine are now level with Syria, who earlier stunned last edition’s runners-up Tunisia 1-0. Palestine will face Tunisia at Lusail Stadium on Thursday.
