- Al-Ahli lose 4-2
- Draxler scores brace
- Walks off field without replacement
WHAT HAPPENED? The German international, who joined Al Ahli from PSG for a reported €10 million fee in the summer window, scored two goals for his new club against Qatar SC after coming on as a substitute in the second half, but he was observed heading down the tunnel without warning before the final whistle sounded. Al Ahli were down 3-0 to Qatar SC when Portuguese coach Pepa sent in Draxler, and they got back in the game minutes later due to the German's quick-fire brace. Draxler departed the game suddenly after playing a pass in the final minutes, though, and Al Ahli had no choice but finish the game with 10 men after using up all of their substitutions.
THE BIGGER PICTURE: Al Ahli ended up losing the match 4-2, meaning they have only collected three points from their first six games of the season. They are now second from bottom in the Qatar Stars League standings, ahead of Al-Markhiya thanks to their slightly better goal difference.
WHAT NEXT? Al Ahli will next be in action on Sunday, October 29 when they take on Al Arabi. It remains to be seen whether Draxler will feature amid reports that his abrupt exit against Qatar SC was due to an injury.