Ajman Secures First 3-Point Victory on Marshlands

Ajman Maintains Perfect Record Against Al Bataeh with Crucial First Win

Ajman secured their first victory of the ADNOC Pro League season with a narrow 1-0 triumph over Al Bataeh on Friday, extending their unblemished historical record against their opponents to seven matches. The win lifts both teams to joint 11th place with three points each, though it represents a critical breakthrough for Ajman after a winless start to the campaign.

Historical Dominance Continues

Since their first encounter on October 30, 2022, Ajman has established clear superiority over Al Bataeh in league competition. The Orange have now won four of seven meetings, with Al Bataeh managing only three draws and no victories. This psychological edge proved valuable as Ajman needed to break their early-season drought.

First Half: Early Pressure Meets Stubborn Defense

Ajman dominated the opening exchanges, with Jamaican striker Junior Flemings squandering a golden opportunity just four minutes in. One-on-one with Al Bataeh goalkeeper Ibrahim Issa, Flemings' powerful shot was expertly saved. The goalkeeper continued his heroics by denying Brazilian forward Lethery Silva in another dangerous situation.

Al Bataeh grew into the match around the 37th minute when Brazilian midfielder Neto tested Ajman keeper Ali Al Hoosni with a long-range effort. The home side responded through Moroccan striker Walid Azaro, who spurned two clear chances in the closing stages of a goalless first half.

Second Half Drama and VAR Controversy

The breakthrough came just two minutes after the restart when Flemings redeemed his earlier miss with a well-placed header. Al Bataeh's response was immediate and desperate, culminating in a penalty awarded in the 80th minute. However, Uzbek forward Aziz Ganiev blazed his spot-kick high over the crossbar, effectively ending his team's hopes.

Late Controversy Mars Finish

The match's closing stages featured typical league drama. Referee Mohammed Al Harmoudi issued a red card to Ajman's Serbian coach Goran before turning to VAR technology to disallow what appeared to be Al Bataeh's equalizer. Brazilian Gianluca Muniz's goal was ruled out due to a preceding foul by teammate Saud Khalil, preserving Ajman's slender advantage.

Implications for Both Clubs

For Ajman, this victory represents more than three points—it's validation of their tactical approach and squad depth. The ability to withstand late pressure while maintaining their historical psychological advantage over Al Bataeh suggests resilience that could prove valuable in upcoming fixtures.

Al Bataeh's failure to convert a penalty and see a late goal overturned highlights the fine margins in professional football. Their inability to secure even a point against a team they've never beaten in league play raises questions about mental fortitude in crucial moments.

The result maintains the established hierarchy between these clubs while providing Ajman with essential momentum for their league campaign ahead.