Doha, Qatar: Al Rayyan yesterday claimed the top spot in Group B at the AGCFF Gulf Club Champions League (GCCL) after a 3-1 victory over Oman’s Al Nahda in a match held at Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium in Al Rayyan, concluding the group stage fixtures.
The win lifted Al Rayyan’s tally to 12 points, confirming their position at the summit of Group B and setting up a semi-final clash against the runner-up from Group A.
Meanwhile, Al Nahda ended their campaign on seven points and exited the tournament after Al Shabab of Saudi Arabia defeated Al Tadhamon Hadramout of Yemen 13-0 to claim second place in the group.
The match opened at a brisk pace, with Al Rayyan asserting control early.
Ahmed Alaaeldin broke the deadlock in the 21st minute with a composed finish inside the box, giving the hosts the lead. Al Rayyan continued to dominate possession and created several chances.
Roger Guedes doubled the advantage in the 55th minute with a well-placed strike that left the Al Nahda goalkeeper helpless.
Al Nahda fought back, and Messouke Oloumou capitalised on a defensive lapse in the 63rd minute to pull one back, injecting hope into the visitors.
However, Al Rayyan responded quickly through substitute Aleksandar Mitrovic, who sealed the 3-1 victory in the 71st minute with a precise finish after a swift counterattack, effectively ending the contest.
Zakho club of Iraq and UAE’s Al Ain advanced to the semi-finals of the competition from Group A.
