Penalty ‘luck’ sends Qatar into Asian Cup semi-final with Iran
DOHA: Qatar’s penalty shootout hero Meshaal Barsham credited “anticipation and luck” as the hosts advanced to an Asian Cup semi-final against Iran after beating Uzbekistan on penalties on Saturday. Goalkeeper Barsham made three saves in the penalty shootout as Qatar won 3-2 after a 1-1 draw at the end of extra time in the quarter-final. Pedro Miguel slotted home his last penalty to spark wild celebrations in front of nearly 60,000 fans at the tent-like Al-Bayt Stadium north of Doha. Qatar’s triumphant players threw Barsham in the air at the end, but the goalkeeper said luck was on his side.


