Piatek Scores Three Goals As Al Duhail Beats Umm Salal 4-2

Post by : Mumtaaz Qadiri

Al Duhail and Umm Salal faced off in Week 4 of the 2025-2026 Doha Bank Stars League at Khalifa International Stadium on Friday. The match started with high energy as both teams wanted to secure points early in the season. Umm Salal took the initiative and tried to control the midfield, while Al Duhail looked for counter-attacking opportunities using their fast and skilled players. Fans in the stadium were eager for an exciting game, and the atmosphere was lively with cheering and chants.

Umm Salal Takes Early Lead

The first big moment came in the 27th minute. Umm Salal’s Oussama Tannane delivered a brilliant free kick from about 10 yards outside the penalty box. The ball curved beautifully to the left and dipped into the net, giving Umm Salal a 1-0 lead. The crowd erupted in excitement as the visiting team celebrated their early advantage. This goal showed Umm Salal’s sharp set-piece skills and put pressure on Al Duhail to respond quickly.

Al Duhail Responds Quickly

Al Duhail did not wait long to equalize. Only three minutes after conceding, Al Duhail’s Luis Alberto skillfully received a cross from Adil Boulbina and slotted the ball into the net. This quick response boosted Al Duhail’s confidence and excited the home fans. The team’s ability to react fast highlighted their experience and tactical awareness. The score was now 1-1, and the game became more intense as both teams pushed for another goal before halftime.

Umm Salal Regains Lead

In the 34th minute, Umm Salal struck again. Cristo Perez scored after a quick move started from a throw-in by Oussama Tannane. Tannane provided a precise cross, and Perez, taking his second attempt, managed to put the ball into the net. Umm Salal led 2-1, putting Al Duhail on the back foot. The goal demonstrated Umm Salal’s teamwork and ability to capitalize on quick attacking opportunities.

First Half Ends With Exciting Play

Despite the two goals by Umm Salal and one by Al Duhail, the first half ended 2-1 in favor of Umm Salal. Both teams showed great energy and commitment, and the fans were treated to exciting moments. Al Duhail needed a strong second half to recover and aim for a victory, while Umm Salal looked determined to maintain their lead. Coaches from both sides gave strategic instructions during halftime to prepare their teams for the remaining 45 minutes.

Piatek Strikes First Goal for Al Duhail

The second half began with Al Duhail looking more aggressive and focused. In the 61st minute, Krzysztof Piatek, the Polish striker, scored his first goal of the match. He chested a pass from Marco Verratti and skillfully placed the ball into the net. This goal equalized the score at 2-2, giving Al Duhail new energy and hope. Piatek’s movement, timing, and finishing were impressive, showing why he is one of the team’s key players.

Piatek Scores Penalty Goal

Just four minutes later, Al Duhail was awarded a penalty. Umm Salal’s Kouassi fouled Mobarak Shanan inside the penalty box. Piatek stepped up confidently and scored from the spot in the 65th minute. This goal gave Al Duhail a 3-2 lead and turned the momentum firmly in their favor. The crowd cheered loudly as Al Duhail fans celebrated the turnaround, while Umm Salal tried to regroup and find an equalizer.

Piatek Completes Hat-Trick

The match continued with Al Duhail dominating possession and pressing high up the field. In added time, the 90+9th minute, Al Duhail earned another penalty after Mobarak Shanan was fouled by Nasser Al Ahrak following a VAR review. Piatek once again stepped up and scored, completing his hat-trick. The final score was now 4-2 in favor of Al Duhail. Piatek’s hat-trick was a display of skill, composure, and experience under pressure.

Key Players’ Performance

Krzysztof Piatek was undoubtedly the star of the match with his three goals. His timing, positioning, and finishing were exceptional. Luis Alberto and Marco Verratti also played important roles by creating chances and assisting the goals. For Umm Salal, Oussama Tannane and Cristo Perez performed well, scoring and assisting, but their team could not maintain the lead. Ferjani Sassi, while playing for Al Duhail, helped in controlling the midfield and distributing passes efficiently, contributing to the team’s overall success.

Tactical Analysis

Al Duhail’s coach adjusted the team’s strategy in the second half, focusing on attacking through the center and making quick passes to Piatek. Their ability to recover from a halftime deficit showed strong mental resilience. Umm Salal, on the other hand, started well but struggled to adapt to Al Duhail’s counter-attacks and aggressive pressing. Defensive errors and fouls in critical moments led to the penalty goals, which ultimately decided the match.

Crowd and Atmosphere

The Khalifa International Stadium was filled with enthusiastic fans from both teams. The crowd’s energy increased with every goal, and the chants for Piatek were constant after his first goal. Fans appreciated the thrilling nature of the game, with its quick goals, skillful plays, and dramatic finish. The stadium’s atmosphere reflected the passion for football in Qatar and the excitement of the Doha Bank Stars League.

Impact on the League

With this win, Al Duhail moved to four points in the league standings, giving them a better chance to compete for the top positions. Umm Salal remained at three points, and their search for a first win continues. This result highlights the competitive nature of the Doha Bank Stars League, where teams fight hard for every point. Al Duhail’s performance, particularly Piatek’s hat-trick, could boost the team’s morale for upcoming matches.

Al Duhail’s comeback from a halftime deficit to win 4-2 against Umm Salal was an exciting and memorable match. Krzysztof Piatek’s hat-trick played a crucial role in the victory, supported by key contributions from other players. The game showcased teamwork, skill, tactical planning, and determination. Both teams displayed high levels of football, but Al Duhail’s effective strategy and Piatek’s finishing proved decisive. Fans left the stadium thrilled, looking forward to more exciting matches in the Doha Bank Stars League.

Al Duhail Win, Piatek Hat-Trick, Doha League Match, Umm Salal Goals