Doha: League leaders Al Sadd SC secured a crucial 3-1 victory over Al Sailiya SC in Week 21 of the 2025-2026 season Qatar Stars League at Al Bayt Stadium on Wednesday.
Akram Afif delivered a standout performance, scoring twice to lead The Wolves to victory, while Roberto Firmino added a third goal as Al Sadd moved to 42 points with one match remaining in the campaign.
Al Sadd made a strong start, taking the lead in the 10th minute when Afif clinically finished from close range following a well-timed pass by Hashim Ali. The hosts maintained control throughout the first half, limiting Al Sailiya’s attacking opportunities.
Afif doubled the advantage just three minutes into the second half, capitalising on a precise through ball from Firmino to slot home his second of the evening and put Al Sadd firmly in command.
The Qatar international came close to completing his hat-trick in the 63rd minute, but his penalty effort was denied by Al Sailiya goalkeeper Fahad Younes, who produced an excellent save to keep his side in the contest.
Firmino then extended Al Sadd’s lead in the 70th minute, finishing off a well-worked move assisted by Paulo Otávio to effectively seal the result.
Al Sailiya SC, battling to avoid relegation, managed to pull one back in the 80th minute through Anwar El Ghazi, but it proved to be no more than a consolation.
Al Sadd comfortably saw out the remainder of the match to secure all three points, strengthening their grip at the top of the standings as the season approaches its conclusion.
