Doha: The Syrian national football team secured a 1-0 victory against Tunisia in their Group A encounter at Ahmad bin Ali Stadium on Monday, as part of the ongoing FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025.
According to Qatar News Agency, the match witnessed both teams delivering commendable technical performances. Tunisia had a slight edge but struggled to penetrate Syria's well-organized defense. Syria's strategy focused on quick transitions and tight marking of Tunisia's key players.
The match gained momentum 15 minutes in, when Syria's Mohammad Alsalkhadi sent a direct ball from the right side, which was easily caught by Tunisian goalkeeper Aymen Dahmen in the 25th minute. Tunisia retaliated with an arcing pass from Omar Laayouni towards Firas Chaouat, but the Syrian defense cut it out in the 30th minute.
As the game progressed, Tunisia dominated possession and nearly scored when Ismael Gharbi's strike deflected off Yassine Meriah, narrowly missing the target in the 33rd minute. Syrian goalkeeper Shaher Al Shakhir made a crucial save from Mohamed Ali Ben Romdhane's shot, followed by Ali Maaloul's missed free kick in the 42nd minute.
Syria's breakthrough came in the 48th minute, when Omar Khribin converted a direct free kick to score the match's only goal. Tunisia's coach Sami Trabelsi brought on Seifeddine Jaziri in the 64th minute, hoping to equalize. Mohamed Ali Ben Romdhane's powerful attempt went wide, and Shaher Al Shakhir saved a shot from Omar Laayouni in the 66th minute.
Syrian coach Jose Lana responded with strategic midfield changes, introducing Mohammad Anez and Yassin Samia in the 74th minute. Syria maintained defensive stability, with Shaher Al Shakhir making a crucial save against Ismael Gharbi's stoppage-time attempt.
Despite Tunisia's persistent efforts to equalize, the match concluded with Syria holding onto their 1-0 lead, marking a significant win in the tournament.