Al Nahda hold Al Shabab to dramatic draw in Gulf CL

MUSCAT: Al Nahda of Oman and Saudi Arabia’s Al Shabab played out an exciting draw in their Gulf Club Championship encounter at the Seeb Stadium on Tuesday night in front of a passionate crowd that added to the intensity of the contest.
Both teams featured several high-profile players, including a number of international representatives, giving the match a strong competitive and technical edge. Al Nahda relied on their experienced national team players, while Al Shabab fielded a squad packed with internationally renowned names.
The opening half saw balanced exchanges between the two sides. Al Shabab enjoyed more attacking possession, while Al Nahda created the more dangerous chances. Al Nahda’s Amir Alaa Kanani came close to breaking the deadlock with three attempts on goal, but Al Shabab goalkeeper Marcelo Grohe produced excellent saves to deny him.

At the other end, Al Shabab’s George Brownhill tested Al Nahda goalkeeper Fayez al Rushaidi with two shots, both of which were successfully dealt with. The first half ended goalless at 0–0.
Al Nahda began the second half strongly, launching four attacks within the opening five minutes. In the 53rd minute, Perry Jean Olumo came close to scoring when his powerful effort struck the post and went out.
Despite Al Nahda’s pressure, Al Shabab took the lead in the 58th minute through Unai Hernández, who found the net to give his side the advantage.
Al Nahda continued to press in search of an equaliser, backed by strong crowd support, and their persistence paid off in the final moments. In the 90th minute, Mohammed al Habsi scored the equaliser, securing a valuable point for the Omani side.
The match ended in a draw, with Al Nahda now turning their attention to their next Gulf Club Championship fixture, an away clash against Al Rayyan of Qatar.
Photo by: Ruqaya al Lawati