Staff Reporter
Doha: Al Rayyan delivered a commanding performance to defeat Al Shabab 3-0 and lift the Gulf Club Champions League 2025–2026 trophy at Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium on Thursday.
The final remained tightly contested for an hour before a turning point in the 59th minute, when Yannick Carrasco was sent off after receiving a second yellow card, leaving Al Shabab a man down. Al Rayyan capitalised immediately, with David Garcia opening the scoring in the 61st minute, rising to head home a precise delivery from Thiago Silva.
The Qatari side tightened its grip as Aleksandar Mitrovic doubled the lead in the 79th minute, converting a well-placed corner from Rodrigo Moreno. Just two minutes later, Roger Guedes added a third, finishing off a flowing move initiated by Ahmed Al Minhali and assisted by Mitrovic.
Despite a competitive first half that saw both sides create chances, including a missed one-on-one opportunity for Al Shabab’s Hammam Al Hammami, the match shifted decisively after the red card.
The victory marks Al Rayyan’s second trophy of the season following their QSL Cup triumph, and a second success under head coach Vicente Moreno, who took charge just a month ago. The champions received $3 million in prize money, while runners-up Al Shabab earned $1 million.
The tournament featured eight clubs from across the region, highlighting the competitive strength of Gulf football.
