RIYADH — Shifa Al-Jazeera Polyclinic Azeezia Soccer entered the final of the Riyadh Villas Cup 8th Keli Football Tournament defeating Chaliyar Rainbow Soccer after a tense shootout in the second semifinal match at the International Football Academy Stadium here.
Rainbow players found it tough against the Azeezia defense and its goalkeeper Shafeeq who pulled off a number of spectacular saves. At the same time Manaf, Althaf and Arif of Azeezia threatened the Rainbow goal several times. In the 10th minute, a beautiful pass from Manaf was converted by Althaf. But Faisal equalized for Rainbow in the next minute.
In the second half, both teams focused on defense. Although both teams earned several free kicks, they failed to find the target. However, off a corner Althaf converted through a beautiful header to put Azeezia 2-1 up. Rainbow then pressed hard to make it a thriller. And it got the equalizer in injury time through Farooq. Azeezia Soccer then won the shootout 3-2. Althaf of Azeezia Soccer was adjudged the Player of the Match.
Prior to the match, players were introduced to Madhusoodanan, production manager and Sukesh, marketing manager of Abdulrahman Al-Gannam Est, sponsor of the semifinal matches, and other guests.
ECU Line Saudi Arabia United FC which defeated Safeco & Arafa Gold Kondotty Real Kerala earlier will meet Shifa Al-Jazeera Polyclinic Azeezia Soccer for the trophy.
IISR in schools final
The International Indian School Riyadh (IISR) entered the final of the Lulu Cup for schools defeating Delhi Public School (DPS) 2-0 in the second semifinal.
In a thrilling match, IISR dominated and Ismayel scored in the 7th minute. IISR boys took full control of the match in the second half too and increased the tally to 2-0 through Alwin.
Prior to the match, players were introduced to guests. Hassan, Muhammad Rafeeq and Subhash were the match officials.
IIPS, which beat Yara School earlier, will take on IISR for the honors.
