Al Arabi finished as runners-up of the 2022-2023 season after scoring a 2-1 win over defending champions Al Sadd in their Week 22 match at the Al Sadd Stadium on Monday.

Abdullah Al Marafee (second minute) and Omar Al Somah (55th minute) scored for The Dream Team, while Al Sadd’s lone goal came from their striker Baghdad Bounedjah in 90+3 minute.

With 16 wins, one draw and five losses, Al Arabi tallied 49 points, while Al Sadd ended up third with 44 points gained from 14 wins, two draws and six losses.

Soon after the match started, Al Marafee struck from ten yards outside the box in fine style after advancing on his own to set the tone for Al Arabi.

They doubled their lead post break with their highest scorer of the season – Omar Al Somah – heading off a Yousef Muftah assist for his 19th goal.

Al Sadd’s consolation goal came late when Hassan Al Haydous’ long kick from far on the right flank was headed in by Bounedjah.

Al Arabi had a whirlwind start to the season and were leading the table prior to the World Cup break, but they suffered a few reversals towards the business end of the tournament and would be proud of their runners-up finish.

Al Sadd, who had a converse start owing to the absence of several stars who were doing duties for their respective national teams, made a big climb towards the end, but were edged by both Al Arabi and eventual winners Al Duhail.