Al Ittihad Club suffered a disappointing 1-0 home defeat to fellow UAE side Shabab Al Ahli in the AFC Champions League Elite on October 1, 2025. The loss was a setback for Al Ittihad's campaign, as they failed to break down a resilient defensive unit in a tight Gulf derby. The only goal of the game came in the first half from a defensive error, which Shabab Al Ahli punished clinically. Al Ittihad dominated possession for large periods and created several chances but were thwarted by excellent goalkeeping and last-ditch defending. As the match progressed, frustration grew within the Al Ittihad ranks, culminating in a missed penalty in the second half that summed up their evening. The defeat highlighted Al Ittihad's struggles in front of goal and left them with work to do in the group, while Shabab Al Ahli celebrated a priceless away win.