Amir Cup 2025: Al Gharafa crowned champions after 2-1 win over Al Rayyan
Al Gharafa were crowned champions of the 53rd edition of the Amir Cup 2025 after defeating Al Rayyan 2-1 in the final held at Khalifa International Stadium.
With this victory, Al Gharafa raised their tally of Amir Cup titles to eight, returning to the winner’s podium for the first time since their last triumph in 2012.
Al Gharafa’s goals came from Ferjani Sassi in the 4th minute and Joselu in the 18th minute, while Roger Guedes scored for Al Rayyan from the penalty spot in the 49th minute.
Al Gharafa started the match strongly, applying pressure on Al Rayyan’s goal in search of an early lead. Sassi succeeded in opening the scoring after a first-time shot off a cross from Ahmed Al Janahi, slotting it into the net in the 4th minute.
This perfect start gave Al Gharafa a boost, and the team continued pressing until they doubled their lead through Joselu, who finished off a deflected effort with a header from a tight angle in the 18th minute.
The rest of the first half saw both teams trading attacks without any further goals, ending with Al Gharafa leading 2-0.
In the second half, Al Rayyan came out stronger, creating threats and pressing high. They were awarded a penalty after a foul by the goalkeeper on André Amaro, and Roger Guedes converted it in the 49th minute to reduce the deficit.
Al Gharafa nearly extended their lead in the 51st minute when Spanish midfielder Rodrigo Moreno broke through and fired a shot, but the ball hit the post.
Al Gharafa were reduced to ten men after Senegalese defender Seydou Sané was shown a red card for a challenge on Guedes in the 65th minute.
Al Rayyan pushed forward in the remaining minutes in search of an equaliser but were unable to find the back of the net, as the referee blew the final whistle to confirm Al Gharafa’s victory and coronation as Amir Cup champions.
