Afif scores hat-trick of penalties as Qatar win Asian Cup

Akram Afif netted a hat-trick of penalties, leading Qatar to a 3-1 victory over Jordan in the Asian Cup final at Lusail Stadium, securing their second consecutive continental title.

Qatar took an early lead when Afif earned a penalty in the 20th minute, converting it by placing the ball into the bottom corner.

Jordan managed to level the score in the second half when Al-Naimat, with an exquisite first touch, controlled a cross and skillfully evaded his marker, scoring his fourth tournament goal with an uncontested shot.

However, just six minutes later Qatar earned another penalty after a VAR check revealed a foul by Mahmoud Al-Mardi and Afif capitalised on the opportunity, securing his second goal from the spot.

In the final stretch, despite Jordan's efforts to equalise, Qatar won a third penalty in stoppage time when Afif was brought down by goalkeeper Yazid Abu Layla while through on goal. Afif maintained his composure and converted his third penalty to seal the victory, prompting jubilation among the home fans in the stadium.