Kosanovic aces it for Al Jazira; Khorfakkan hold Shabab Al Ahli

Milos Kosanovic scored late as Al Jazira snatched an important 1-0 victory against Al Dhafra, at Mohammad Bin Zayed Stadium in matchweek 6 of Arabian Gulf Cup Group A on Friday.

In the other early match of the day, the more fancied Shabab Al Ahli Dubai were held by Khorfakkan to a goalless draw. However, despite the stalemate, Shabab Al Ahli retained their top spot in Group A, ahead of second-placed Al Ain who albeit have two more games in hand.

Al Jazira started on the front foot as they threatened Al Dhafra in the 11th minute, when Faisal Al Matroushi received a loose ball near the edge of the box and sent a powerful shot that went just wide off the left post after a deflection off Al Dhafra’s defenders.

In the second half, Al Jazira carried on from where they left when Renner De Souza sent a crossed ball towards Thulani Serero, who squared it to Bruno De Oliveira. The Brazilian’s right footed strike was brilliantly denied by Khalid Al Senani in the 65th minute.

The hosts continued to push forward and their efforts finally paid off in the dying moments of the game, as they were awarded a penalty kick after Mourad Batna was brought down inside the box by Badr Al Attas. Milos Kosanovic sent the ball home from the spot to snatch the full points for Al Jazira. The late win takes Al Jazira to the fourth spot with seven points and will face Kalba in the next fixture. Meanwhile, Al Dhafra remain in the third position with seven points.

In the third match of the day, Group B table toppers 10-man Al Wahda managed to hold Al Wasl to 1-1 draw to retain their spot on the top. Al Wasl move up to second spot with this result.