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Al Sadd complete 'Invincibles' campaign for second Qatar Stars League season running

Simon Holmes/NurPhoto via Getty Images

Qatar Stars League champions Al Sadd have completed an 'Invincibles' campaign for the second year running, after going through the entire 2021-22 season without tasting defeat following Friday's 2-1 win over Al Wakrah.

Rodrigo Tabata's penalty secured the victory with 11 minutes remaining, after Boualem Khoukhi's opener for Al Sadd had been cancelled out by Al Wakrah's Saleh Halabi.

Al Sadd had previously secured a record-extending 16th league title with four games to spare back on Feb. 22, and their final tally of 62 points -- from 20 wins and two draws -- is two more than their haul from last term.

As one of the biggest clubs not just in Qatar but all of Asia, Al Sadd were always expected to challenge for the title but did have to overcome the mid-season departure of former coach Xavi, who left the club in November to take over the reins at LaLiga giants Barcelona.

Following his departure, his void was filled by ex-Watford boss Javi Gracia -- who currently boasts a near impeccable record of 14 wins and a draw from his time in charge so far.

Al Sadd remain in the running to do the double with a Emir of Qatar Cup semifinal tie against fierce rivals Al Duhail to come on Monday, and will also compete in the AFC Champions League -- Asia's premier club competition -- with the group stage beginning in April.