Unbeaten Qatar storm into quarterfinals with slick win

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Tuesday, January 19th 2016 05:28 AM

DOHA: Qatar's in-form strikers scored once again on Monday as the home team crushed Syria 4-2to reach the AFC U-23 Championship quartefinals with a perfect group stage record. The home side overcame a stutter in the first four minutes when they conceded a goal but Qatar boys - coached Felix Sanchez - quickly regained composure to beat Syria at under lights at Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium. With Monday's win, Qatar have qualified for the quarterfinals of the three-week event. On Monday, Yousef Kalfa gave Syria the lead in the 4th minute but Qatar hit back through captain Abdelkareem Hassan (10), Ahmed Alaa (24 and 82) and Moez Ali (28). Syria's Omar Kharbin reduced the deficit in the 81st minute but Alaa scored his second of the match in the 82nd minute. Hassan and Alaa have scored in all three games for the home side. Overall Qatar have scored 9 goals in three matches. In the opening clash of the 16-team event, hosts Qatar rallied to beat China 3-1 followed by a 2-1 win against a powerful Iran side. In another Group A clash on Monday, Iran fought a brave China to win 3-2 and qualify for the quarterfinals. The top three sides will win automatic qualifying berths at this year's Olympic Games to be held in Rio de Janeiro. Qatar will play their quarterfinal on January 22 against a yet-to-be identified team.