Al Sadd retained the prestigious Falcon Shield a third successive time as they beat Al Shamal 3-2 in the title-deciding showdown final week match of the 2025-2026 season Doha Bank Stars League at the Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium on Monday.
The goals for Al Sadd came from Akram Afif (20th minute), Roberto Firmino (22nd minute) and Paulo Otavio (68th minute).
For Al Shamal, Baghdad Bounedjah (65th minute) and Jeison Murillo (85th minute - Penalty) were on target.Al Shamal, who were chasing their maiden Qatar Stars League title, were reduced to ten-men in the 49th minute when Abdessamed Bounacer received a direct red card for fouling an on-a-charge Afif.
Al Sadd ended the season with 45 points from 22 games while Al Shamal on 40 points.
Al Shamal, who needed nothing less than a win to become champions, were dealt the first blow by Afif who’s strike from inside the box was deflected by a defender’s boot – which also deceived goalkeeper Babacar Seck.
Within minutes, Firmino doubled Al Sadd’s lead – much to the delight of their fans at a packed stadium. Assisted by Claundinho’s cross, he slotted home while being unmarked and in the clear.
Al Shamal had their hopes raised when in the second half, Bounedjah beat an advancing Meshaal Barsham to make it 1-2.
But minutes later, Otavio produced a brilliant left-footer inside the box to beat Seck in the left corner as Al Sadd moved up to 3-1.
A late penalty for Al Shamal, for a foul by Al Sadd player near the goalline, saw Murillo make the scoreline 3-2 but it came too late for the first time hopefuls to force the issue.
Al Sadd could’ve finished with more goals had Claudinho not found the bottom of left post in the 37th minute, and shot over while being in the clear during stoppage time.
This is Al Sadd’s 19th Qatar Stars league triumph and their first under Italian coach Roberto Mancini.The Wolves who first claimed the title in the 1971-72 season, have now been unbeaten champions since 2023-2024 season. Since 2012-2013 season, they have dropped the league title only once in 2022-23.
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