Doha : Aspire Academy secured a place in the semi-finals of the International Football Cup with a 2-1 victory over Scottish side Rangers in Group A action on Tuesday.
The match, played at Mansour Muftah Stadium, was part of the second round of fixtures at the 11th edition of the tournament, which runs until Jan. 29.
Faisal Bakheet opened the scoring for Aspire Academy in the 28th minute before Hadi Khalil doubled the lead from the penalty spot in stoppage time at the end of the first half. Carly Miller pulled one back for Rangers in the 69th minute, but the Scottish side were unable to find an equaliser.
The result lifted Aspire Academy to six points from two matches, making them the first team to qualify for the semi-finals and maintaining their lead at the top of the group. Rangers remained on one point after drawing 0-0 with Tunisian side Etoile du Sahel in their opening match.
Aspire Academy began their campaign with a 1-0 win over Morocco’s Mohammed VI Academy.
Rangers were reduced to 10 men early in the match after Ashton Skally was sent off in the 12th minute, allowing Aspire Academy to dominate possession and create the clearer chances. Bakheet struck first before Khalil calmly converted a penalty to give his side a two-goal cushion at the break.
Despite the numerical disadvantage, Rangers improved after halftime and reduced the deficit through Miller, but Aspire Academy held firm to see out the win.
Aspire Academy coach Alvaro Mejia praised his team’s first-half performance, saying the early goals were crucial regardless of the red card. However, he expressed dissatisfaction with the second-half display, citing a lack of intensity and focus.
Rangers coach Malcolm Thompson said he was proud of his players’ effort, highlighting their improved performance in the second half and the fighting spirit shown despite the defeat.
