Qatar Islamic Bank (QIB) knocked out Qatar Central Bank (QCB) out of Aspire Banks Football Tournament in a closely-fought contest that ended in a penalty shootout.
The result means QIB is set to face Masraf Al Rayan (MAR) for the overall tournament title in tonight’s final, following MAR’s 2-0 win over Doha Bank in their last game.
Despite strong and attacking play, QCB, which tested QIB’s defence on a number of occasions, ended up losing the match. The team from QIB demonstrated clear tactical awareness, strength in defence and managed to counter-attack effectively. Their consistently strong performances has seen them emerge as one of the surprise elements of the tournament.
In the second match of the night, MAR – the strongest performing team in the tournament thus far and favourites to secure the title – defeated Doha Bank 2-0 in a high-tempo, exciting game that was also full of strong attacking play.
The final round of matches in the Aspire Banks Tournament take place on today. Doha Bank and QCB battle it out for third place in a game that kicks off at 6:30pm. The tournament final between QIB and MAR is set to start at 8pm
An official closing ceremony to bring the tournament to a close will take place after the match. During this ceremony, first, second and third placed teams will be awarded for their efforts. Awards will also be presented to the best player, best striker, best goalkeeper, best coach, best administrator, and a fair play award for the most sportsmanlike team.
A QIB player tries to seize the ball from QCB defender during the Aspire Banks tournament. RIGHT: QIB players celebrate after thier victory.
