Doha: Al Kass U-17 International Cup continued on Saturday at Aspire Academy, with 8 clubs taking part in the event which is scheduled to run until February 22. Aspire Academy and Rangers FC played out a competitive 1-1 draw on Day 3 of the tournament, with both teams showcasing strong performances.

According to Qatar News Agency, the match began with high intensity, as both sides looked to gain an early advantage. Aspire Academy controlled possession in the opening minutes, creating several opportunities in the attacking third. Their efforts paid off when they broke the deadlock with a well-executed goal, putting them ahead.

Rangers FC responded with determination, increasing their attacking pressure in search of an equalizer. Their persistence was rewarded in the second half when they capitalized on a defensive lapse, leveling the score at 1-1.

Both teams continued to push for a winner in the final stages of the match, but solid defensive performances on both ends ensured the game ended in a draw. Aspire Academy and Rangers FC displayed great tactical discipline and fighting spirit, making it an engaging contest for spectators.

With this result, both teams take a point from the match, keeping their tournament hopes alive as they prepare for their upcoming fixtures.

At a post-match press conference, Aspire Academy Head Coach Alvaro Mejia Perez said he was pleased with his team's performance after scoring a draw against opponent Rangers Football Club at their second match in the tournament. Perez reiterated his team's great success at the second half. He added that the boys came to the pitch knowing that it was going to be a tough match, and vowed that Aspire Academy will fight until the end to qualify.

Coach Perez noted that everything was still open and the team now looks forward to what happens in the next game. He went on to stress that the team's priority for now was to qualify for the next round.

Addressing the media, Rangers Football Club Head Coach Laurence Ellis said the match was a tough challenge for his team, which he said was also good for the boys to improve. Coach Ellis noted that the team had a good rhythm in the first half, but the second half had been a little bit more difficult with Aspire playing in a difficult level physically.

Overall, the Scottish coach believes that the team was competitive in both games and are in a really strong position. He added that the players will give every ounce of energy to get the results needed to qualify for the next stage of the tournament.