Race for AFC qualification, survival intensifies

The Adnoc Pro League title may already be decided, but the drama of the season is far from over.

With Al Ain crowned champions last week, attention now turns to the fierce battle for AFC qualification spots and the intense fight to avoid relegation as Matchweek 25 promises decisive encounters across the table.

The upcoming round, taking place on Sunday and Monday, carries huge significance after UAE clubs secured five continental places: three direct spots and one playoff place in the AFC Champions League Elite, in addition to one direct berth in AFC Champions League Two.

With only two matchweeks remaining, every point could define a club’s season.

Sunday’s fixtures all kick off simultaneously at 7:25pm, with survival pressure at its highest.

Sharjah, currently 10th with 25 points, can officially secure safety when they face bottom-placed Al Bataeh (19 points) at Khalid Bin Mohammed Stadium.

For Al Bataeh, the equation is simple: only victory will keep their survival hopes alive heading into the final round.

Dibba, sitting 12th with 20 points, host Ajman knowing that a win could prove crucial in their battle to remain in the Adnoc Pro League.

Meanwhile, Al Dhafra (13th, 19 points) face perhaps the toughest challenge of the round against newly crowned champions Al Ain at Hazza Bin Zayed Stadium.

While Al Dhafra fight to keep their survival hopes alive, Al Ain continue chasing history, aiming to complete the season unbeaten and achieve a historic ‘Golden League’ campaign.

Elsewhere, Bani Yas host Shabab Al Ahli in a clash with different ambitions for both sides.

Bani Yas have already secured survival, while Shabab Al Ahli are closing in on qualification for next season’s AFC Champions League Elite.

Monday’s action begins with Al Nasr facing Kalba at Al Maktoum Stadium at 6.10pm.

Kalba need just one point to officially guarantee survival and avoid any final-day complications.

The spotlight then shifts to two major clashes kicking off at 8:45pm.

At Mohammed Bin Zayed Stadium, fourth-placed Al Jazira (41 points) host third-placed Al Wasl (42 points) in a direct showdown for a place in the AFC Champions League Elite.

Al Wasl enter the match in strong form against Al Jazira, having remained unbeaten in their last five league meetings between the two sides, recording three wins and two draws.

The Emperor have also won the last two encounters and now aim to achieve a third consecutive victory over Al Jazira for the first time in Adnoc Pro League history.

Al Wasl are also chasing another milestone: completing a league double over Al Jazira for the first time ever.

In the other match, fifth-placed Al Wahda (39 points) take on Khorfakkan (8th, 26 points) as they look to bounce back from last round’s defeat to Al Wasl and keep their Asian qualification hopes alive.

Sharjah players take part in a training session.