Gambian forward Musa Barrow starred with a brace as Al-Khaleej secured an entertaining 4–2 victory over Al-Okhdood, with African players making significant contributions at both ends of the pitch.
Barrow opened the scoring in the 24th minute to give Al-Khaleej an early advantage, but Al-Okhdood responded strongly before the break. Algerian midfielder Sofiane Bendebka levelled the score in the 39th minute with a superb free-kick before Angolan forward Afimico Pululu put his side ahead 2–1 in the 45th minute, converting a pass from Ahmed Al-Nakhli.
Al-Khaleej responded immediately after the restart, with Malian defender Kiki Kouyaté heading home an Angelo Fulgini delivery in the 47th minute to restore parity at 2–2.
Joshua King completed the turnaround in the 73rd minute to put Al-Khaleej ahead before Barrow struck again two minutes later. The Gambian forward finished off another assist from Fulgini in the 75th minute to seal his brace and complete the 4–2 victory.
The result highlighted the influence of African talent, with Barrow, Kouyaté, Bendebka and Pululu all finding their way onto the scoresheet in an entertaining contest.
