The defending champions and hosts Qatar secured their spot in the Asian Cup last 16 by defeating debutants Tajikistan 1-0 on Wednesday.
The win, coupled with China's earlier 0-0 draw against Lebanon, ensured Qatar's progression as Group A winners.
The dynamic forward Akram Afif, who previously scored twice in Qatar's 3-0 victory over Lebanon, netted the decisive goal early in the first half, delighting the 55,000-strong crowd with another clinical finish. Tajikistan concluded the match with 10 players as Amadoni Kamolov received a red card for kicking out at Ahmed Al-Ganehi's face, marking the first dismissal of the tournament.
Returning to the Al Bayt Stadium, where they suffered a 2-0 defeat to Ecuador in the World Cup over a year ago, Qatar showcased a strong performance under the guidance of coach Tintin Marquez. Making five changes to the starting lineup, Marquez dropped captain Hassan Al-Haydos to the bench.
The match saw Tajikistan make a positive start, with Rustam Soirov testing Qatar goalkeeper Meshaal Barsham early on. However, Afif's 17th-minute goal shifted the momentum in Qatar's favour, though they missed further opportunities to increase their lead in the first half.
Tajikistan had a scare when a potential penalty for Qatar was ruled out after a VAR check, and they survived another close call when Zoir Dzhuraboev cleared a shot from Almoez Ali off the line. In the second half, Tajikistan had a chance, but Alisher Dzhalilov couldn't convert.
The turning point came in the 81st minute, when Kamolov was sent off for kicking Ganehi during a challenge. Tajikistan, who earned their first point with a 0-0 draw against China, still has a chance to qualify for the knockout round and will face Lebanon on Monday. Meanwhile, Qatar will play against China in their final group match on the same day.
