Qatar defeat Japan in a Historic Asian Cup Final
February 2, 2019
Qatar became the Asian Cup champions for the first time after they defeated Japan 3-1 in a memorable final at the Zayed Sports City Stadium on Friday.
Qatari inform striker, Almoez Ali broke a host of records as Qatar were crowned champions over Japan to claim their first Asian Cup trophy at the United Arab Emirates.
The match was a tensed game, and both sides had their equal share of chances. However, Ali scored in just 12 minutes which set the stage for a grand final. He controlled a cross from Afif with his back against the goal to set up himself up for an incredible volley from a few yards out.
Almoez Ali nearly scored a second goal when he was afforded space. But Japanese defender, Yoshida recovered just in time to make a decisive block. Qatar was not to be denied in the 27th minute when another outrageous strike from when Hatim found the net from over 25 yards out. In fact, in the first 30 minutes, Qatar was brilliant. Japan wasn’t able to do anything in attack and Qatar was relentless on the counter.
In the second half, Japan dominated possession but still faced a very resilient Qatari defense. Japan finally got their goal after Takumi Minamino pounced on a loose ball to a finish over Qatar goalkeeper Saad Al Sheeb in the 69th minute.
This was the first goal that for Qatar had conceded in the tournament after they had kept six clean sheets before the final.
Nevertheless, the Samurai Blue’s bid for a miraculous comeback was short-lived after Yoshida fouled a Qatari player in the box. Referee, Ravshan Irmatov consulted VAR, before giving Qatar a penalty. Then Afif stepped up to convert it from the spot.
It could be recalled that Spanish World Cup winner and legend, Xavi Hernandez predicted that Qatar would lift the Asian Cup and that happened.
Qatar, who have never qualified for the World Cup could be a nation to watch out for. Qatar and Japan will also participate in the 2019 Copa America.
This article is brought to us by our Sports Writers Club resident columnist – Collins Michael Nwokolo. Follow him on Twitter and Pinterest.
