Qatar defeated Jordan 3-1 at Lusail Stadium on Saturday, with Akram Afif scoring three penalties as the hosts won their second continental title and successfully defended their Asian Cup crown.
Jordan was competing in its first ever Asian Cup final and aiming for its first major trophy, but eight opponents, including Qatar's ruler Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and FIFA president Gianni Infantino, Qatar won in front of 6,492 fans.
After Afif took the lead with a penalty in the 22nd minute, Jordan continued to attack but could not break through until the second half, when Yazan Al-Naimat scored the equalizer in the 67th minute.
Jordan's relief didn't last long. Just a few minutes later, Afif converted his second penalty, and finally completed his hat-trick with his third goal from the penalty spot, sealing Qatar's victory.
Afif, who was held aloft by his teammates after the final whistle, also received the Player of the Match and Player of the Tournament awards.
“I was able to score the penalty because of the trust my teammates had in me. It's not about technique or choice of angle, it's about the feeling that the team is behind me,” Afif said. Ta.
On the other hand, Jordan's coach Hussein Ammuta said, “In the first half, we lacked concentration and made some mistakes. We had an easy chance to score, but we couldn't score.'' The timing of the two penalties. [in the second half] It was tough.
“But I want to congratulate the players. They have gained confidence and expanded their horizons for the future. Maybe they can win in future tournaments.”
