Al Sadd clinch ESL title in style

Doha, Qatar: Al Sadd clinched the record extending 17th Qatar Stars League currently known as the Expo Stars League (ESL) title after a 4 0 thumpi...

Doha, Qatar: Al Sadd clinched the record-extending 17th Qatar Stars League – currently known as the Expo Stars League (ESL) – title after a 4-0 thumping of Al Shamal at Al Bayt Stadium yesterday.    

The Wolves, who remained dominant throughout the season, scored two goals in each half to seize the title and were crowned champions receiving the coveted Falcon Shield with one match to spare.

They victory took their tally to 49 points, giving them an assailable lead over Al Rayyan and Al Gharafa, who registered victories yesterday and will battle for a second place in the final round on April 28, with both standing on 44 points.

Hassan Al Haydos gave Al Sadd the lead in the ninth minute, stealing a bad pass from Al Shamal defender to slot from near the penalty spot.

Gonzalo Plata struck in 26th minute with Al Shamal being reduced to 10 men five minutes before half-time following a red card to Omid Ebrahimi.