Both finalists were eligible to compete in the play-offs for the 2011 AFC Champions League, subject to AFC's assessment for professionalism based on selected criteria.
Al-Ittihad won the game after penalties. The game was tied 1–1 after regular time and Extra Time. It was their first title.[1]
Background
Both teams met already in the preliminary round. The first game ended in a scoreless draw, while Al-Qadsia won the second match 3–0, but in the second match it was already known that both sides would advance. Both teams had a hard time surviving the first knockout-stage where Al-Qadsia needed extra time to beat the Indian club Churchill Brothers while Al-Ittihad drew Al-Kuwait 1–1 after 120 minutes and won 5–4 after penalties. In the quarterfinals both teams had no bigger problems to advance to the semifinals. Al-Ittihad lost the first leg in the semifinals 0–1 against Muangthong United F.C. from Thailand but came back to win the second leg at home 2–0.[2]
Al-Qadsia lost the first leg 2–0 and was in need of a comeback at home. In the second leg they defeated Al-Riffa 4–1 and advanced to the final.[3]
