Doha: The Indian community team emerged victorious at the Asian Communities Football Tournament organised by the Qatar Football Association, after defeating Palestine 3-2 in the final of the 2021-22 edition, which was played at the Doha Stadium on Saturday evening.
India won their second title in the competition following a thrilling 60-minute game in front of a passionate crowd of supporters.
Palestine opened the scoring through Omar Nasser in the 6th minute, before India roared back through goals from Mohammed Mufeer Ali and Reed Siemen in the 17th and 24th minutes.
After the halftime break, Sadhik Pulikkal extended India’s lead with a third goal in the 35th minute and the team looked to be moving comfortably towards the title until Palestine were awarded a penalty in the 50th minute.
Mahmoud Bader stepped up and converted the kick to set up a dramatic finale, but India withstood the pressure to claim victory and take home the trophy.
It is worth noting that QFA aims to establish such tournaments to instil and establish the concept of (football for all) with the local community institutions and football fans.
Source: Qatar Football Association