Al-Jazira Put Four Past Baniyas in Dominant ADNOC Pro-League Display

Al-Jazira (UAE) delivered a commanding performance at the Mohammed Bin Zayed Stadium on 16 May 2026, dismantling Baniyas Club with a convincing 4-1 victory in the United Arab Emirates ADNOC Pro-League. The result kept the Pride of Abu Dhabi firmly in the hunt for a top-four finish, while Baniyas were left to rue a disjointed defensive display.

Match Overview

From the first whistle, Al-Jazira asserted control. Their high press forced Baniyas into frequent errors, and the home side capitalised ruthlessly in the final third. The visitors struggled to contain the pace and movement of Al-Jazira's attacking quartet, who carved open the Baniyas backline at will.

Key Moments

• 12th minute: Al-Jazira broke the deadlock when a swift counter-attack ended with a composed finish from winger Zaid Al-Ameri, slotting past goalkeeper Mohamed Al-Hammadi.
• 29th minute: The home side doubled the lead through a set-piece. A well-worked corner found centre-back Khalifa Al-Hammadi, who headed home from close range.
• 44th minute: Baniyas pulled one back against the run of play. A speculative long-range strike from Ahmed Al-Darmaki deflected past Al-Jazira's keeper to make it 2-1.
• 52nd minute: Al-Jazira restored the two-goal cushion with a stunning individual effort by substitute Faisal Al-Mansouri, who dribbled past three defenders before firing into the top corner.
• 78th minute: The home side put the game to bed. A clinical breakaway saw Ali Mabkhout, a legend of UAE football, finish with typical composure to make it 4-1.

Tactical Story

Al-Jazira manager Mark van der Veen set his team up in an aggressive 4-3-3 that overwhelmed Baniyas' midfield diamond. The full-backs pushed high, creating overloads on the flanks. Baniyas attempted to hit on the counter but lacked the final pass. Al-Jazira's pressing forced 12 turnovers in the opposition half, directly leading to two goals.

Standout Players

Zaid Al-Ameri was a constant menace, scoring one and assisting another. His pace and direct running unhinged the Baniyas defence. In midfield, Majed Abdullah dictated the tempo, completing 93% of his passes and winning four tackles. For Baniyas, goalkeeper Mohamed Al-Hammadi made several fine saves to keep the scoreline respectable.

Table Impact

The win lifted Al-Jazira to fourth place in the ADNOC Pro-League standings, closing the gap on third-placed Al-Wahda to just two points. Baniyas remained ninth and now face a fight to secure a mid-table finish with two games remaining.