Al-Sudra Cup Final between Al-Wasl and Al-Ahli
The drive for top spot will be on display in the Al Wasl derby against their guests, Al Ahli, today, in the strongest match of the third round of the UAE Pro League.
Al Wasl and Al Ahli began the season strongly, both securing two consecutive wins, with Al Wasl holding a slight advantage at the summit, leading by a single goal.
Portuguese coach Rui Vitória of Al Wasl said: “This is the right time to play the derby, as we are in good shape after two wins. Al Ahli also possess quality; they are a strong opponent and have enjoyed squad stability for two years. Therefore, this match represents a significant challenge for us.”
He added: “It will be a difficult match for both Al Wasl and Al Ahli. I hope we deliver a good game that everyone attending the stadium can enjoy. From our side, we will fight until the end to win, and we believe in ourselves and in the work we are doing.”
For his part, Brazilian coach André Jardine of Al Ahli emphasized that “the derby is a special match that motivates everyone, and victory depends on small details.”
He noted that “the atmosphere will be different from the previous two matches,” as Al Ahli trailed in scoring until the second half in those games, before coming from behind to defeat Al Khaleej 5-1 and Al Dhafra 2-0.
Perlo and the dream of survival
United City FC also plays today against Kalba, following their unprecedented 3-2 victory over Baniyas in the previous round under Italian coach Andrea Perlo, marking his first win in the league since his team’s recent promotion. Perlo expressed his happiness after the first win and stressed that “our team’s goal is to continue winning, and our ambition this season is to remain in the top flight.”
Al Jazira will host Ajman tomorrow, aiming for a third consecutive victory, similar to their opponent, who has recorded the best start in their history.
Al Jazira leads Ajman in fourth place on goal difference and also boasts the league’s best defense, having become the only team to keep a clean sheet in the first two rounds.
Champions and current third-placed side Al Ain, also on six points, hope to extend their perfect run, having reached their twelfth consecutive league win and their 35th match without defeat. However, to achieve their ambitions, Al Ain must overcome the challenge of tomorrow’s visitors, Al Nassr, the only team that has not lost to them last season, having drawn 2-2 in the first leg and 1-1 in the second. Al Nassr currently holds four points from a win and a draw.
