Spain and Barcelona legend Xavi exhibited his enduring class during round eight of the Qatar Stars League, getting on the score sheet as Al Sadd struck two late goals to defeat bitter rivals Al Arabi 3-2 in a typically-spicy Doha derby.

Xavi, 36, and Algeria striker Baghdad Bounedjah (2) struck on Saturday night to finish off Al Arabi, who fought their way back into the game thanks to a brace from former Al Ahli man Luis Jimenez.

The result kept the 13-time champions on the tail of undefeated leaders El Jaish, for whom Uzbekistan winger Sardor Rashidov’s solitary strike downed relegation threatened Al Kharaitiyat.

After two heavy defeats in the top flight, many would have feared for Al Shahania after they conceded two first-half goals against bottom of-the table Al Wakrah.

However, the newly-promoted side grew in confidence and managed to draw level at 2-2 with ten minutes to spare though Algerian forward Mohamed Tiaiba. Shahania will now be targeting a win against lowly Kharaitiyat on Friday.