
Kalbaa Triumphs Over Bani Yas with Qaddous' Decisive Goal
Kalba Secures First Points with Late Drama Against Bani Yas in UAE Pro League
Iranian striker Saman Ghoddos delivered Kalba their first points of the UAE Pro League season with a dramatic 88th-minute penalty, securing a 1-0 victory over Bani Yas at Al Shamkha Stadium. The late winner not only rescued Kalba from consecutive defeats but also inflicted a historic low on Bani Yas, who became the first team in their Pro League history to lose their opening two matches.
Historic Significance for Both Clubs
The result carries particular weight for both teams' trajectories this season. Kalba's victory represents their fifth all-time win against Bani Yas in professional league competition, a significant achievement for the smaller club. More importantly, it prevented what could have been a devastating start to their campaign after last week's difficult loss to Al Nasr.
For Bani Yas, the defeat marks uncharted territory. The club, known as "Al Samawi" (The Sky Blues), had never previously lost their first two league matches since joining the professional ranks. This follows their 0-2 opening day loss to Al Wasl, creating immediate pressure on the coaching staff and raising questions about their summer preparations.
Match Dynamics and Tactical Battle
Cautious Opening Sets Tone
The encounter began with both teams adopting conservative approaches, reflecting the early-season pressure neither could afford another defeat. The first 15 minutes saw play largely confined to midfield, with neither side willing to commit numbers forward and expose defensive vulnerabilities.
Bani Yas created the game's first genuine opportunity in the 20th minute when Uzbek midfielder Akmal Mozgovoy unleashed a powerful strike from outside the penalty area. Kalba goalkeeper Sultan Al Mandhri produced an excellent save, showcasing the shot-stopping ability that could prove crucial for his team's survival hopes this season.
Second Half Intensity
The second period saw Bani Yas adopt a more varied attacking approach, utilizing both aerial crosses and quick counter-attacks through deep passes. However, Kalba's defensive organization, clearly worked on extensively following their opening day disappointment, proved resilient under pressure.
The hosts thought they had broken the deadlock in the 71st minute when French striker Youssef Yenakatie converted from close range after the ball fell kindly in the penalty area. However, referee Yahya Al Mulla correctly ruled the goal offside, maintaining the deadlock and setting up the dramatic finale.
Late Drama Decides Contest
The match's defining moment arrived in the 88th minute when Tunisian defender Osama Obaid fouled Iranian striker Shahryar Moghanlou inside the penalty area. Referee Al Mulla had no hesitation in pointing to the spot, setting up Ghoddos for his moment of glory.
The Iranian international, who brings valuable experience from European football, calmly slotted his penalty to the right of Bani Yas goalkeeper Fahad Al Dhanhani. The strike not only secured three vital points but demonstrated the composure that Kalba's management hoped Ghoddos would provide when they secured his services.
Implications for the Season Ahead
This result could prove pivotal for both clubs' campaigns. Kalba's ability to bounce back from adversity suggests they possess the mental resilience necessary for what promises to be a challenging season. The late winner will boost confidence throughout the squad and provide momentum heading into subsequent fixtures.
Conversely, Bani Yas face an early-season crisis that demands immediate attention. Two consecutive defeats, particularly the manner of this loss after dominating large portions of the match, will concern supporters and management alike. The historical nature of their poor start adds additional pressure that could affect player confidence in upcoming matches.
The victory shifts the historical head-to-head record between these clubs, with Bani Yas now leading 10-5 across 21 professional league encounters, including six draws. However, Kalba's recent success suggests they are becoming increasingly competitive against their more established opponents.