Post by : Mariam
Al-Faris
Al Gharafa SC bounced back after their opening loss by defeating Iraq’s Al Shorta 2-0 in the AFC Champions League Elite 2025/26 on Monday. Goals from Joselu and Ferjani Sassi helped Pedro Martins’ side claim their first three points, restoring confidence after a narrow 4-3 defeat to Sharjah FC in their opener.
Al Shorta Seeks First Victory
Al Shorta are still searching for their first win of the campaign, following a 1-1 draw against Al Sadd SC from Qatar two weeks ago. The Iraqi team struggled to convert opportunities despite several promising chances early in the game.
Early Chances and Close Calls
The match began with a fast-paced exchange of opportunities. In the fifth minute, Ahmed Yahia’s powerful run down the left set up Mahmoud Al Mawas, whose shot hit the left post from close range. Al Gharafa nearly scored in the 13th minute when Joselu capitalized on a poor back pass from Mehdi Ashabi but struck the right post from a tight angle.
Al Shorta Miss Key Chances
Al Shorta continued to threaten, with Mahmoud Al Mawas slipping the ball to Leonel Ateba, whose close-range shot was fumbled. Moments later, the duo tried again, but Al Gharafa goalkeeper Amine Lecomte-Addani denied another attempt. Al Shorta’s best chance of the first half came from a fast break finished by Ahmed Al Ganehi, whose shot sailed over the crossbar.
Joselu Opens the Scoring
The deadlock was finally broken three minutes into the second half. Ahmed Al Ganehi intercepted a poor pass, setting up Yacine Brahimi, who delivered the ball to Joselu. Joselu calmly slotted home from close range, giving Al Gharafa a well-deserved lead.
Sassi Doubles the Lead
Al Gharafa extended their advantage in the 54th minute. Brahimi’s precise cross into the box found Ferjani Sassi, who headed the ball past Al Shorta keeper Ahmed Basil, securing a 2-0 lead. The home side pressed for a third goal but were denied by the woodwork in the 66th minute when Al Ganehi’s effort struck the bar.
Al Shorta tried to stage a comeback on a counterattack, with Al Mawas providing a pass to Dominique Mendy, but the shot was blocked, leaving the score at 2-0. Despite late pressure, they could not find the net, and Al Gharafa held firm.
Al Gharafa will face defending champions Al Ahli Saudi FC in an away fixture on October 20. Meanwhile, Al Shorta is scheduled to host Al Ittihad Club on the same day. Both teams will aim to gain momentum as the AFC Champions League Elite 2025/26 progresses.
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