Al Arabi (UAE) won a five-goal thriller against City Club in the United Arab Emirates Division 1 Group A, claiming a 3-2 away victory on Friday, September 18, 2026. The 22:40 kickoff delivered drama from start to finish, with City Club twice taking the lead before Al Arabi produced a late winner to snatch all three points.

Match Overview

City Club made the better start and went ahead in the 14th minute through Hassan Al-Blooshi, whose well-timed run beat the offside trap. Al Arabi responded positively and equalised in the 29th minute when Omar Al-Falasi finished neatly after a patient build-up. The home side regained the lead in the 51st minute through Ali Al-Zaabi, but the match remained open and unpredictable.

Al Arabi equalised for a second time in the 67th minute when Jamal Ibrahim struck from just inside the box. With the game seemingly heading for a draw, Sultan Al-Dhahri found the decisive goal in the 88th minute, converting a late chance after City Club failed to clear their lines. It was a cruel ending for the hosts and a memorable comeback for Al Arabi.

Key Moments

• 14' — City Club 1-0: Hassan Al-Blooshi scored with a confident finish after a quick transition.
• 29' — City Club 1-1: Omar Al-Falasi equalised for Al Arabi with a composed effort.
• 51' — City Club 2-1: Ali Al-Zaabi restored the home side’s lead with a strong run and finish.
• 67' — City Club 2-2: Jamal Ibrahim levelled again, keeping Al Arabi’s momentum alive.
• 88' — City Club 2-3: Sultan Al-Dhahri scored the winner, sparking celebrations among the Al Arabi players.

Tactical Story

City Club looked dangerous when they attacked directly, but they struggled to protect their lead. Al Arabi used their substitutions well and gradually took control of midfield, pressing higher and forcing turnovers in dangerous areas. The winning goal came from exactly that kind of pressure, as City Club were unable to clear a late attack.

Al Arabi’s persistence was the defining feature of the match. They responded to every setback and kept faith in their passing game, while City Club will be disappointed with their game management. In a division where away wins are precious, Al Arabi’s ability to score late could prove to be a valuable trait.

Standout Players

• Sultan Al-Dhahri (Al Arabi): Scored the decisive goal and was a constant threat in the final 20 minutes.
• Omar Al-Falasi (Al Arabi): His equaliser kept the away side in the contest during a difficult spell.
• Hassan Al-Blooshi (City Club): Opened the scoring and caused problems with his movement.
• Ali Al-Zaabi (City Club): Restored the lead with a determined individual effort but could not inspire a win.

Standings and Season Impact

Al Arabi’s 3-2 victory strengthens their position in the UAE Division 1 Group A standings and gives them valuable momentum. City Club, meanwhile, are left to reflect on a match they led twice but failed to close out. The result underlines how competitive Group A can be, with late goals and fine margins shaping the table. Al Arabi will view this as a signature win, while City Club must tighten up defensively if they are to climb the rankings.