Hussein Ashkanani celebrates at the end of the match.

MALE, Aug 12: Al-Arabi secured its spot in the group stage of the Asian Challenge League after a convincing 4-0 victory over Maldives’ Mazia Sports in a playoff match at the National Stadium in Malé. The goals came from Emmanuel Ewala (3'), Julien Ngoyi (41'), Christopher John (55'), and Hussein Ashkanani (88').

Al-Arabi joins Kuwait Club in the tournament, which kicks off in October, with the group stage draw scheduled for August 28.

Coach Marco Alves fielded a starting lineup featuring Suleiman Abdulghafour in goal; defenders Juma Aboud, Mohammed Khalid, Abdulwahab Al-Awadi, and Ali Abdulrasool; midfielders Hamad Al-Harbi, Ali Aziz, and Frenchman Hassimi Fadiga; and attackers Nigerian Emmanuel Ewala, Christopher John, and Belgian Julien Ngoyi.

From the opening whistle, Al-Arabi dominated, pressing for an early goal and mixing attacks on both wings with crosses. Emmanuel Ewala opened the scoring in the 3rd minute after receiving a pass from John and firing a precise shot into the top corner.

Mazia had a chance to equalize shortly after but missed a one-on-one opportunity, with Abdulghafour making a crucial save to force a corner.

Al-Arabi maintained control, creating multiple chances. Ngoyi extended the lead in the 41st minute, converting a cross from Fadiga just before halftime.

In the second half, Al-Arabi continued its pressure, and Christopher John scored a powerful strike in the 55th minute to make it 3-0.

Substitute Hussein Ashkanani capped the win with a late goal in the 88th minute, sealing the 4-0 victory as the team looks ahead to the next stage.

By Hassan Mosa

Al-Seyassah/Arab Times