Coutinho: Former Barcelona and Liverpool Star Scores Outstanding Freekick on Al Duhail Debut: Video

• Ex-Barcelona and Liverpool star, Philippe Coutinho began his sojourn in Qatar on a flying note
• Coutinho belatedly made his debut for Al-Duhail against Al Markhiya on Thursday evening
• The 31-year-old was directly involved in his side's two goals before half-time

Philippe Coutinho opened his goal-scoring account for Al-Duhail in style, scoring a belter from a freekick on his debut.

The former Liverpool and FC Barcelona forward, who joined the Qatari-based club on a season-long loan from Aston Villa during the summer, had to exercise patience for his highly-anticipated debut due to an injury.

His maiden appearance for Al-Duhail finally unfolded at the Al Janoub Stadium on Thursday, September 28, as the Red Knights sought to reverse their recent poor form, with the Brazilian maestro integrated into the lineup.

Operating in his favoured No. 10 position, Coutinho swiftly showcased his magical passing abilities, sprinkling moments of his deft touches throughout the game.

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Coutinho's influence was immediately apparent as his dazzling skills put pressure on the Markhiya defence, leading to a foul and, subsequently, a penalty.

Sharp-shooting Kenyan striker Michael Olunga, who had scored four goals in his previous four games, calmly converted the penalty opportunity.

According to AS, the pinnacle of his performance arrived just before halftime when he unleashed a breathtaking free-kick that found the back of the net, restoring his team's lead after Driss Fettouhi of Al Markhiya had equalized.

Here is the video:

The 31-year-old lasted 62 minutes on his debut, with coach Hernan Crespo affording his marquee signing a much-needed rest. Qatari midfielder Karim Boudiaf replaced him.

Coutinho joins Al-Duhail on loan

Earlier, Sports Brief reported that Coutinho completed a season-long loan move to Al-Duhail from Aston Villa on Friday, September 8.

Coutinho had fallen out of favour at the Premier League club, despite initially making a positive impression following his loan transfer from Barcelona last year.

Coutinho's move to Al-Duhail was possible because the Qatari transfer window remained open until September 18, even after the Premier League transfer window had closed.