Al-Ittihad Ahli of Aleppo claimed a 2-1 victory over Paro FC in the AFC Challenge League on October 23, 2026, with a late goal breaking the resistance of the Bhutanese side. The win gives the Syrian club an important three points in the continental competition and rewards a performance built on patience, physical strength, and set-piece quality.

Match overview

Al-Ittihad Ahli of Aleppo began the match as the more aggressive side, pressing Paro FC and forcing turnovers in midfield. Their early pressure produced the opening goal in the 22nd minute when Omar Al-Sayed arrived at the back post to convert a deep cross. Paro, however, grew into the game and showed why they are a dangerous opponent, defending in numbers and looking to strike on the break.

The equalizer came in the 57th minute through Karma Tshering, who finished neatly after a rare Paro attacking sequence caught the Syrian defence off guard. That goal set up a tense final half-hour, with Al-Ittihad Ahli pushing forward in search of a winner. The decisive moment arrived in the 83rd minute when Mahmoud Al-Hassan rose highest to head home from a corner, sending the home support into celebration.

Key moments

• 22nd minute: Omar Al-Sayed scores from close range to put Al-Ittihad Ahli ahead.
• 57th minute: Karma Tshering equalizes for Paro FC with a composed finish.
• 71st minute: Paro goalkeeper makes a strong save to deny Al-Ittihad a second goal.
• 83rd minute: Mahmoud Al-Hassan heads in the winner from a corner.
• 90+3 minutes: Al-Ittihad Ahli defend a late free-kick to secure the win.

Tactical story

Al-Ittihad Ahli of Aleppo relied on a direct approach, using their physical presence in the box and their strength from set pieces. Their midfield worked hard to win second balls, and their wide players delivered several dangerous crosses. Paro FC, meanwhile, defended deep and attempted to use quick breaks to relieve pressure. The Bhutanese side’s equalizer came from one of their few sustained attacks, showing their ability to punish lapses in concentration.

In the end, Al-Ittihad’s persistence paid off. They continued to load the box from corners and free-kicks, and the winning header was a fitting reward for their aerial dominance. Paro will be disappointed to concede late, but their disciplined performance kept them competitive until the final minutes.

Standout performers

Al-Sayed’s movement and finishing were central to Al-Ittihad’s attacking threat, while Al-Hassan delivered the decisive contribution with his late header. The midfield duo also deserves credit for controlling the tempo and winning key duels. For Paro FC, Tshering was the standout performer, taking his goal well and working tirelessly off the ball.

What the result means

The victory strengthens Al-Ittihad Ahli of Aleppo’s position in the AFC Challenge League and gives them momentum for the remainder of the campaign. Paro FC leave with a narrow defeat but can take confidence from their organization and resilience. In a competition where away performances and goal difference can shape qualification, both sides will know the fine margins involved.