Doha: Qatar were forced to a 1-1 draw with Syria in their second Group A match at the FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025, after conceding a late equaliser at Khalifa International Stadium on Thursday.

According to Qatar News Agency, substitute Ahmed Alaa put Qatar ahead in the 78th minute with a well-placed header from an Edmilson cross, capping a dominant spell for the hosts, who were seeking their first points after losing to Palestine in their opener.

But Syria captain Omar Khribin struck in the 90th minute with a powerful effort from outside the box, earning his side a valuable point and taking their tally to four, following their earlier win over Tunisia.

The draw leaves Syria second on goal difference behind Palestine, who drew 2-2 with Tunisia earlier in the day. Qatar and Tunisia sit third and fourth with one point each.

Qatar controlled much of the match, creating a series of chances in the first half through Mohammed Waad, Abdulaziz Hatem, Tarek Salman, and Akram Afif, but were repeatedly denied by Syrian goalkeeper Alaa Al Dali and last-ditch defending.

The hosts thought they had won a penalty on the hour mark when Homam Al Amin went down in the box, but VAR overturned the decision.

Head coach Julen Lopetegui introduced fresh attackers in the final stages, and Qatar finally broke through via Alaa’s header. Syria responded by pushing forward and came close through Simon Amin before Khribin’s late equaliser.

Qatar nearly snatched victory in stoppage time, but Mohammed Al Mannai’s powerful strike was saved as Syria held on for a draw. The result keeps Group A wide open heading into the final round of matches.