In a thrilling Asian Cup final showdown, Qatar triumphed 3-1 over Jordan, clinching their second consecutive title, with Akram Afif emerging as the hero with a hat-trick of penalties.
The highly anticipated match unfolded at Lusail Stadium, drawing an impressive crowd of 86,492 spectators. Jordan, making their debut appearance in the final, faced a formidable Qatari side seeking redemption after their disappointing World Cup campaign.
Qatar took the lead in the first half when Akram Afif confidently converted a penalty, putting his team ahead. However, Jordan responded with resilience, equalizing through Yazan Al-Naimat’s well-taken goal before halftime.
The second half saw intense action, with both teams pressing for the decisive goal. Qatar regained the lead after Afif struck again from the penalty spot, following a VAR review. Jordan fought valiantly to level the score, but Qatar’s defense held firm.
In a dramatic climax, Afif completed his hat-trick in injury time, securing Qatar’s victory and cementing their status as Asian football champions.
The win served as a redemption for Qatar, erasing the disappointment of their winless World Cup campaign.
