Al Duhail's Mohammed Muntari (left) celebrates after scoring the first goal against Al Gharafa, yesterday.
Doha: Goals from Mohammed Muntari (4) and substitute Paulo Edmilson (80) helped title-chasers Al Duhail go four points clear at the top of the QNB Stars League (QSL) standings following a 2-0 win over Al Gharafa at Al Sadd Stadium yesterday.
Al Duhail now have 46 points in their account as the Slavisa Jokanovic-coached side moved one step closer to secure the coveted Falcon Shield.
Al Rayyan, on Saturday, had the opportunity to take the lead in the points table, but a disappointing goalless draw against Al Arabi dented their hopes.
Al Duhail, who were held by Umm Salal in a one-all draw in their first match after the resumption of the League on July 25, had beaten Al Gharafa 2-1 in the first leg.
For Al Gharafa, who had beaten Al Arabi 1-0 last week, Al Duhail proved to be too strong to handle, but they managed to remain in the top four despite the loss.
Defender Sultan Al Breik had a role in Al Duhail’s both goals as he provided the assists for Muntari and Edmilson.
Muntari was on target as he sent home a rebound after Almoez Ali’s shot came off the rival defence, with Karim Boudiaf setting the stage with a chested-down cross from Al Breik.
Al Gharafa struck back through Jonathan Kodjia, their missed the opportunity to score as the hero in victory over Al Arabi sent his shot wide.
Al Duhail could have scored two more but Asim Madibo and Almoez's efforts were spoiled by Al Gharafa custodian Qasim Burhan.
Edmilson, who replaced Almoez, brought them result as the Belgian midfielder doubled their lead by directing Al Breik’s cross into the net.
Al Duhail’s Han Kwang-Song then headed the ball against the right post off a free-kick from Ali Afif, both being substitutes.
Earlier, Al Khor and Al Wakrah played out a 1-1 draw.
Mohamed Benyettou put Al Wakrah ahead in the 17th minute, while Lucca Borges pulled Al Khor level in the 67th minute.
Al Khor and Al Wakrah now have 15 and 21 points respectively.
Al Khor were fighting to avoid relegation, while Al Wakrah, playing in the top flight after a gap of two seasons, were looking to improve their position in the league.
It was Al Wakrah’s second successive draw, following their goalless result against Al Sailiya in Week 18.
Their first-leg match also ended in a draw, with both teams failing to score.
