Doha: The Qatari national football team lost to their Palestinian counterparts 1-0 in the opening match of the 11th edition of the FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025 at Al Bayt Stadium.

According to Qatar News Agency, the decisive moment came in stoppage time, when Qatari defender Sultan Al Brake inadvertently turned in an own goal in the 95th minute.

The victory awarded Palestine three points, placing it level at the top of the group with Syria, which earlier secured a 1-0 victory over Tunisia. Qatar and Tunisia find themselves in third and fourth positions without any points.

Qatar dominated possession and launched attacks from the outset, with star forward Akram Afif creating several opportunities. Ahmed Alaa forced an early save in the fifth minute, while Ahmed Fathi's shot missed the target two minutes later. Mohammed Muntari came close in the 11th minute, firing just wide following another assist from Afif.

Qatar faced a setback when midfielder Assim Madibo exited due to injury in the 33rd minute, leading to his replacement by Issa Laye.

Palestine gradually gained momentum and capitalized in stoppage time when Ahmad Al Qaq's cross was deflected into the net by Sultan Al Brake, securing a dramatic win and a perfect start to the tournament.