Morocco’s Abderrazak Hamdallah inspires Al-Shabab to victory over Zakho

Moroccan striker Abderrazak Hamdallah emerged as the defining figure on a historic night for Al-Shabab FC, guiding the side to the Gulf Champions League final at the expense of Zakho SC after a dramatic penalty shootout victory.

The encounter ended 1-1 in regulation time before Al-Shabab edged past their opponents 4-3 on penalties, with Hamdallah playing a decisive role despite not being fully fit.

The experienced forward delivered when it mattered most, winning a crucial penalty in the 84th minute that led to the equalising goal and ultimately kept his team in contention.

شووف |
الدقيقة 84 .. بعد الرجوع الى تقنية الفيديو حكم المباراة يحتسب ركلة جزاء للشباب السعودي أمام زاخو العراقي .. برأيك هل تستحق ركلة الجزاء ؟#دوري_أبطال_الخليج_للأندية#قنوات_الكاس || #منصة_شووف pic.twitter.com/tnuBdsY0Ja

— قنوات الكاس (@AlkassTVSports) April 19, 2026

Speaking after the match, head coach Noureddine Zekri revealed the extent of Hamdallah’s commitment.

“Hamdallah only trained one day before the match, as he was suffering from an injury,” he said during the post-match press conference.

He continued, “Hamdallah played through his injury in order to play the match, and he succeeded in performing brilliantly, and I thank him very much for what he offered.”

The striker’s impact extended beyond his on-field contribution. Following the final whistle, Hamdallah stepped in to defuse a heated confrontation, shielding teammate Ali Al-Bulaihi from escalating clashes with Zakho players.

From a decisive penalty win to a moment of leadership under pressure, Hamdallah’s influence defined the night, cementing his status as the hero behind Al-Shabab’s memorable qualification.