Akram Afif hands Qatar the perfect start at Asian Cup 2023

Hosts Qatar got their title defence off to a perfect start as they won the opening game of the 2023 Asian Cup in Doha, defeating Lebanon 3-0.

Following a dazzling opening ceremony that was witnessed Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani at the Lusail Stadium, prized playmaker Akram Afif continued the celebrations with a brace.

A classy finish either side of half-time from Afif and a header from Almoez Ali sealed a comfortable win.

Qatar had an early goal ruled out for offside. In the sixth minute, Abdulaziz Hatem sent a through ball for Ali, who evaded his marker and slotted the ball past Mehdi Khalil, only for the forward to be flagged offside.

After a period of dominance, Afif finally broke the deadlock on the stroke of halftime when he pounced on a lay-off by Ali in the box to make it 1-0.

Ali, top scorer in the 2019 edition, then doubled the lead in the 56th minute when he headed home Mohammed Waad's inviting cross from the left flank.

Lebanon had their moments but Qatar held firm.

Akram Afif provides fitting end to night, with his 2nd & Qatar's 3rd. Hosts, who suffered woeful opening night at World Cup, begin #AsianCup2023 with a bang.

Must be said, Lebanon certainly no Ecuador.

Afif sealed victory in stoppage time when he pounced on a botched clearance and easily accelerated past a tiring Lebanon defence before applying a the finishing touch.

It was a memorable day for over 80,000 fans who had packed into the stadium.

Qatar had also beaten Lebanon in their opening game of the 2019 Asian Cup. They will face Tajikistan in their next game on Wednesday, with China the other team in Group A.

Saturday's action begins with Australia taking on India, before China play Tajikistan and Uzbekistan face Syria.

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