Arab Cup kicks off with surprise wins for Palestine and Syria

The FIFA Arab Cup opened in Doha, Qatar with two shock results: a narrow 1–0 win for Palestine over the host nation, and another 1–0 victory for Syria against Tunisia.

Following an impressive opening ceremony inspired by the national anthems of the participating teams in the FIFA-organized tournament, the Palestinian national team delivered an excellent defensive performance against the Asian champions. Qatar’s Sultan Al-Brek mistakenly turned the ball into his own net in the dying moments, gifting the “Fedayeen” a memorable victory.

Nothing in the early stages of the match suggested that Qatar — already qualified for the 2026 World Cup — would suffer defeat, but Al-Brek’s attempted clearance of a low cross in the final minute of stoppage time ended up in his own net. Palestine thus shares the top of the group with Syria, who defeated Tunisia thanks to a free-kick goal by Omar Khribin.

Key moments of the match

Qatar started strongly and missed a big chance through Mohammed Al-Mannai in the 10th minute, as his shot went just wide of the right post. “Al-Annabi” continued pushing for an opener, especially through captain Akram Afif, before suffering a blow when midfielder Assim Madibo left the pitch in tears due to injury, replaced by Issa Laay in the 31st minute.

After a goalless first half, Qatar’s Spanish coach Julen Lopetegui introduced playmaker Edmilson Junior, who immediately energized the attack and fired a powerful shot from outside the box — brilliantly saved by goalkeeper Rami Hamadeh.

Palestine improved considerably towards the end and controlled possession far better than in the first half, when they had relied heavily on counterattacks. Oday Dabbagh came close with a powerful strike that flashed just wide of Qatar’s right post in the 69th minute.

At the other end, Hamadeh shone once more, tipping away a close-range header from Mohammed Muntari for a corner with 15 minutes remaining.

Ahmed Al-Qaq then squandered a great opportunity for Palestine after receiving a pass from Zeid Qanbar, but he fired off target from close range.

With the match seemingly heading for a draw, Al-Brek was unlucky with his attempted clearance, sending the ball into his own net and sparking wild celebrations among Palestinian players and fans, while silence fell over the Qatari supporters.

After the match, Palestine coach Ihab Abu Jazar said: “A historic win. It is our first victory, and we are extremely happy. to the players — they were heroes in every sense.” He added: “We managed to beat a world-class team and the champions of Asia. We will build on this.”

Lopetegui, meanwhile, expressed his disappointment, saying: “We are very sad and not happy because we lost in the final moments. I’m not pleased with our performance — we can do much better.”

He added: “They played with more passion and spirit than us. Both teams had equal chances, but they won it at the end.” He concluded: “We are suffering from injuries, but we must deal with it.”