RIYADH: Soufiane Rahimi salvaged a late draw for champions Al-Ain in their epic box-office clash with star-studded Sharjah, and unflappable Al-Wahda striker Joao Pedro gained Abu Dhabi derby bragging rights at Al-Jazira in an engrossing match-week 10 of ADNOC Pro League. Favourites Sharjah looked poised for an important triumph when Spain hitman Paco Alcacer doubled their lead
The opening round of the ADNOC Pro League saw Champions Al-Ain dramatically drop points at Ajman, while debutants Al-Bataeh shone as the 2022-23 season promised plenty of intrigue in the coming weeks and months. Bahrain winger Ali Madan’s fortunate strike saw Ajman hold the Boss to a 1-1 draw in Friday’s opener, with last term’s 26-goal leading scorer Kodjo Fo-Doh Laba also
However, their moment of breakthrough came in the 29th minute as Elmusrati was in the right position to head Joao Novais’ cross past goalkeeper Beto.
That goal was an eye-opener for the hosts who fought like a wounded animal to level matter in the 34th minute through Pedro Henrique – with Ryan Gauld providing the assist.
With no goals in the remaining 11 minutes, both teams went into the half time break all squared.
In the second 45 minutes, Jorge Costa’s Farense came out blazing, albeit, they were unable to match the visitors who dominated ball possession.
While it was looking like the encounter would end in a draw, super-sub Andraz Sporar condemned the Lions of Faro to defeat with his last-gasp effort.
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