Umaru nets winner as Qatari colts beat Yemen

HOLDERS Qatar defeated Yemen 1-0 in a Group C match last Monday to improve their chances of qualifying for the AFC Under-19 Championship quarterfinal in Manama, Bahrain.

Abdulrasheed Umaru, who came on as a substitute in the 72nd minute, scored the all-important goal seven minutes from time.

The win, which followed a 1-1 draw with Iran, helped Qatar increase their tally to four points even though Oscar Cano’s boys are now second in the group behind Japan on goal difference.

Qatar will take on Japan in a crucial tie on Thursday as they look to progress as one of the top two teams. 

Iran, who drew with Japan as well, have two points from as many matches while Yemen are yet to open their account.

Umaru said Qatar could defeat Japan.

“If the coach puts his plans well, as he always does, and fields the best starting eleven, then anything is possible. We aren’t eyeing anything less than a victory as it’ll take us to the top of the group,” said Umaru.