UAE Club Secures First Defeat Under Paulo Sousa Coaching, Celebrates Title Victory
Al-Ahli Dubai's much-anticipated celebration of their UAE championship title this weekend was a no-go, as they tasted their first league defeat, losing 2-1 to rivals Al-Wasl. So, Paulo Sousa's team's celebratory plans took a hit.
The hosts grabbed the lead in the 20th minute thanks to Giménez, and they added another in the second half, thanks to Fabio Lima in the 49th minute. The best Al-Ahli Dubai could do was cut the deficit through Ezatolahi in the 80th minute, but it wasn't enough to salvage a draw.
With this result, Al-Ahli Dubai maintains their position at the summit of the table with 56 points, a significant advantage over Al-Sharjah, who could potentially hand the title to Al-Ahli Dubai if they falter. Meanwhile, Al-Wasl moves up to third place with 40 points.
As of May 3, Al-Ahli Dubai leads the pack with 56 points from 22 games, having won 17 and drawn 5. Key challengers include Al-Sharjah (2nd with 45 points) and Al-Wahda (3rd with 38 points), with Al-Wasl just behind in fourth (37 points).
However, it's worth noting that the latest available league table doesn't reflect Al-Ahli Dubai's loss to Al-Wasl, which could suggest that either the match hasn't taken place yet (Al-Wasl vs Al-Ahli Dubai was scheduled for May 3 per search results), or the defeat occurred in a different competition.
In the final stretch of the season, which has seen 22 matchweeks so far, key fixtures likely revolve around title contenders Al-Sharjah and chasing teams Al-Wahda/Al-Wasl. For the most up-to-date fixtures, consult the UAE Pro League official site.
Al-Ahli Dubai's celebration of their UAE championship title was sullenly postponed due to their surprising 2-1 loss against Al-Wasl, squandering their opportunity to secure an early victory in the European-leagues qualification race. Paulo Sousa's team, initially leading the table thanks to 56 points from 22 games, now faces criticism for not seizing a vital opportunity against their rivals.
With this defeat, the hosts allowed Al-Sharjah, sitting in second place with 45 points, the chance to potentially snatch the title away if Al-Ahli Dubai falters. Al-Wasl, having moved up to third place with 40 points following their victory, now finds itself in a strong position to challenge for the championship.
Even though Al-Ahli Dubai saw a reduction in points, Everton Ezatolahi's late goal in the 80th minute kept the team at the summit of the UAE Pro League, albeit with a diminished advantage. As the season approaches its climax, crucial encounters will shape the final standings, with Al-Sharjah's fixtures crucial to determining the title winners.
Fans and football enthusiasts are advised to keep a close eye on the UAE Pro League official site for the latest updates on the remaining fixtures and league standings.
