
Seven-Goal Thriller: Sharjah Edges Al-Gharafa in AFC Champions League Epic
Read our blog on the incredible 4-3 victory for Sharjah FC against Al-Gharafa SC in the AFC Champions League. Get the latest match report, detailed scorecard, and analysis of this seven-goal thriller. A must-read for all Asian football fans!
Seven-Goal Thriller! Sharjah Edges Al-Gharafa in an AFC Champions League Classic
An unforgettable night of football as the AFC Champions League delivers a match for the ages.
Football fans across Asia were treated to an absolute spectacle as Sharjah FC hosted Qatar’s Al-Gharafa SC in a thrilling AFC Champions League Elite encounter. The match, which felt more like a basketball game at times, saw a staggering seven goals scored, with Sharjah emerging victorious with a narrow 4-3 win. It was a rollercoaster of emotions for both sets of fans, proving once again that the beautiful game is alive and well in Asia.
Competition: AFC Champions League Elite, Matchday 1 | Date: Monday, September 15, 2025
Venue: Sharjah Football Stadium, Sharjah, UAE

Match Report: A Tale of Two Defenses (or Lack Thereof)
From the first whistle, it was clear that both teams were more interested in scoring goals than preventing them. Al-Gharafa, in particular, came out firing on all cylinders, taking an early lead that sent a shockwave through the home crowd. But Sharjah quickly responded, showing why they are considered one of the tournament favorites. The first half was a back-and-forth affair with both teams exchanging blows, and the crowd was on the edge of their seats.
The second half was no different. Every time one team seemed to gain the upper hand, the other would strike back almost immediately. It was a testament to the attacking talent on display, with both sides showcasing incredible skill and determination. While the defenders might want to forget this match, the forwards will be replaying their goals for years to come. The final whistle brought a collective sigh of relief from the Sharjah players and a look of disbelief from Al-Gharafa, who must have felt they deserved a point from such a high-scoring game.
Key Moments & Standout Performances
While the entire match was a highlight reel, the performances of a few key players stood out. Sharjah’s forward line was clinical, with each goal feeling perfectly timed to swing momentum back in their favor. Al-Gharafa’s attackers also deserve immense credit for their relentless effort, which kept them in the game until the very end. The final goal, a beautifully worked team effort from Sharjah, was a fitting end to a match defined by attacking brilliance. This match sets a high bar for the rest of the AFC Champions League campaign.
Match Scoreboard
Team | Goal Scorer(s) | Minute(s) |
---|---|---|
Sharjah FC | Otabek Shukurov Luanzinho Caio Lucas Paco Alcácer |
21′ 34′ 58′ 79′ |
Al-Gharafa SC | Yacine Brahimi Ahmed Alaaeldin Yacine Brahimi |
11′ 45′ 64′ |
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