Full-time: Paro FC 1-2 Al Ansar SC

Al Ansar SC came from behind to beat Paro FC 2-1 in the AFC Challenge League at Changlimithang Stadium on 20 October 2026. The Lebanese side showed composure and experience after conceding early, turning the match around with a first-half equaliser and a second-half winner that leaves Paro FC with work to do in the group standings.

Match overview

Paro FC started brightly in front of their home support, pressing high and looking to play through the lines. Their attacking intent was rewarded in the 18th minute when Tenzin Dorji found space on the edge of the box and guided a low finish into the corner. The Bhutanese side continued to look dangerous on the break, but Al Ansar gradually grew into the contest and began to control possession in midfield.

The equaliser arrived just before half-time, with Rami Chaito converting from close range after a sustained period of pressure. That goal changed the mood of the match. Al Ansar came out for the second half with more authority, and their patience paid off in the 72nd minute when Ali Hammoud scored what proved to be the winner with a well-placed effort from the edge of the area.

Key moments

• 18th minute: Tenzin Dorji gives Paro FC a 1-0 lead with a low finish after a quick attacking move.
• 44th minute: Rami Chaito equalises for Al Ansar SC, reacting quickest to a loose ball inside the box.
• 72nd minute: Ali Hammoud scores the winning goal for Al Ansar with a composed strike from the edge of the area.
• 90+3 minute: Paro FC push numbers forward in stoppage time, but Al Ansar’s goalkeeper claims a dangerous cross to protect the win.

Tactical story

Paro FC’s game plan was built on energy and width. Their full-backs pushed high, and the front three rotated well to create overloads in wide areas. That approach worked early, but it also left space behind the defence when attacks broke down. Al Ansar recognised that space and began to attack more directly as the first half wore on.

In the second half, Al Ansar’s midfield took control. They slowed the tempo, drew Paro forward and then used quick combinations to break through the lines. The winning goal was a perfect example of that patience: a short passing sequence opened space at the edge of the box, and Hammoud made no mistake. Paro pushed hard for an equaliser late on, but Al Ansar defended their lead with maturity and managed the closing stages well.

Standout players

Ali Hammoud was the decisive figure for Al Ansar SC, scoring the winner and constantly finding pockets of space between Paro’s midfield and defence. Rami Chaito also played a key role, not only for his equalising goal but for his link-up play and movement off the ball.

For Paro FC, Tenzin Dorji was the standout performer. His early goal gave the home side belief, and he remained a threat throughout with his direct running. Paro’s goalkeeper also made several important saves to keep the score at 1-1 before Hammoud’s winner, but the home side will rue the chances they missed during their strongest spell.

Season impact

The result gives Al Ansar SC an important away win and three points in the AFC Challenge League group standings. It also strengthens their head-to-head record in the competition and gives them a platform to build on in their next fixture. Paro FC, meanwhile, will need to respond quickly. The Bhutanese club showed enough attacking quality to compete in the group, but they must find a way to protect leads and manage transitions better if they are to challenge for progression.