Akram Afif reacts angrily to Qatar substitution in Gulf Cup 27 semi-final

Spanish manager Julen Lopetegui’s decision to replace Akram Afif left the Qatar forward visibly frustrated during the semi-final against Saudi Arabia at Gulf Cup 27.

Saudi Arabia played Qatar at Al-Inma Stadium in Jeddah on Saturday, 3 October 2026, with the match still goalless when Lopetegui made the change in the 69th minute.

Afif appeared unhappy as he walked off the pitch and repeatedly asked: “Why?” before leaving the field.

Footage showing the moment was published by Abu Dhabi Sports, capturing the 29-year-old’s reaction to the substitution.

The decision marked the third time Afif has been replaced during the tournament. He was also taken off during Qatar’s group-stage matches against Bahrain and Yemen, while he did not play in their third group game against the United Arab Emirates.

Afif has struggled to produce his best form at Gulf Cup 27, contributing only one goal in the tournament, in Qatar’s match against Bahrain.

Andrews Sefa Bamfo

Andrews Sefa Bamfo is a promising young football writer and reporter, recognised as one of the rising talents in African football journalism. He specialises in match reporting, features and on-ground coverage, bringing fresh perspective and energy to the industry.He is educated at the University of Ghana and has gained valuable experience working with one of Ghana’s leading media organisations, TV3, where he developed his skills in both television reporting and football journalism.Andrews’ talent and potential were further recognised when he was selected for the prestigious CAF Young Reporters Programme, where he received advanced media training in partnership with CANAL+. This exposure has helped shape his understanding of modern sports journalism and storytelling.Since then, he has continued to grow in the field and is widely regarded as one of the emerging voices in African football media. He is currently a Staff Writer at African.Football, contributing to the platform’s coverage with insightful reports and engaging content for a global audience.

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