Al Jazira vs Bani Yas

Imoh Ezekiel’s late goal rescued a point for Al Jazira who played out a thrilling 3-3 draw with Bani Yas at Mohammad Bin Zayed Stadium in matchweek 17 of the Arabian Gulf League on Thursday.

 

The hosts got off to a quick start and were already 1-0 up after nine minutes when Brandley Kuwas' left-footed effort nestled into the back of Bani Yas' net. Al Jazira’s spectacular start to the game continued as in-form Ali Mabkhout got his name on the scoresheet five minutes later to make it 2-0.

Joao Pedro pulled one back for Bani Yas four minutes before the break to keep his side's hopes of making a second-half comeback alive.

 

Bani Yas kicked off the second half in an emphatic fashion as Nicolas Gimenez netted two quick-fire goals to hand his side the lead. The Argentine midfielder scored the equalizer in the 48th minute, before putting the Sky Blues in front with a second goal on the 50-minute mark.

 

As Bani Yas marched closer to the three points, Al Jazira made a late comeback with substitute Imoh Ezekiel netting the equalizer in the fourth minute of injury time, as they shared the spoils following a thrilling match.

 

Al Jazira failed to capitalize on Sharjah’s draw with Al Dhafra earlier on Thursday, as they missed a chance to go at the top of the standings. The Pride of Abu Dhabi remain second on 37 points trailing leaders Sharjah by virtue of head-to-head record.