Expo Stars League: Al-Sadd puts nine past Al-Ahli to edge closer to title

DOHA: Expo Stars League leaders Al-Sadd delivered a commanding performance, defeating Al-Ahli 9-1 to move closer to the championship title.

Akram Afif’s early goal set the tone, with Al-Sadd continuing their dominance throughout the match. Baghdad Bounedjah who came off the bench to net a hat-trick highlighted Al-Sadd’s attacking prowess in a game that saw Al-Ahli end with ten men, after Idrissa Doumbia’s red card. The result extended Al-Sadd’s lead at the top of the league with 46 points, as they successfully capitalised on Al-Gharafa’s setback against Al-Markhiya.

Earlier, Al Duhail dominated Muaither with a 5-2 victory. The first half had felt like an even affair as Muaither came back to equalise twice against Al Duhail’s twin strikes from Michael Olunga. However, Al Duhail surged ahead in the second half, scoring three more goals, with Olunga completing his hat-trick. This win propelled Al Duhail to 28 points, while Muaither remained at 14 points, tied with Al Markhiya at the bottom.

Meanwhile, Umm Salal staged a remarkable comeback to beat Al Arabi 2-1 after trailing by a goal. Mohammed Al Taabouni’s early strike gave Al Arabi the lead, but Umm Salal responded strongly, scoring twice in the second half through Kenji Gorre and Oussama Tannane. This victory lifted Umm Salal to 24 points, securing them a safer position in the league table.