PETALING JAYA (2 Feb 2019) – Qatar picked up their first ever AFC Asian Cup title when they beat four times winner Japan 3-1 in the final that was played last night at the Zayed Sports City Stadium in Abu Dhabi.
Two early goals from Almoez Ali, s solo effort in the 12th minute and then Abdelaziz Hatim curling drive on 27 minute gave the Qataris just what they needed going into the dressing room.
After the break, Japan finally broke the stubborn Qatari defence in the 69th minute through Takumi Minamino wonderful finish.
But any hopes of a Japanese revival was dashed when Japan conceded a penalty eight minutes to the end that was converted by Akram Afif.
ROLL OF HONOUR
MVP: Top Goalscorer: Almoez Ali (Qatar)
Best Goalkeeper: Saad Al Sheeb (Qatar)
Man-of-the-Match: Akram Afif (Qatar)
Fairplay Award: Japan
