Pimenta's Last-Minute Winner Seals Dramatic Victory for Al-Wahda over Al-Ittihad

Al Wahda Stuns Al-Ittihad with Dramatic Comeback Victory in AFC Champions League Elite Opener

Al Wahda delivered a masterclass in resilience, overturning a first-half deficit to defeat Saudi Arabia's Al-Ittihad 2-1 in a thrilling AFC Champions League Elite opener at Al Nahyan Stadium in Abu Dhabi. Lucas Pimenta's stoppage-time winner capped off a remarkable comeback that showcased the UAE club's growing ambitions on Asia's biggest stage.

First Half Drama Sets the Stage

Despite controlling the midfield battle, Al Wahda found themselves trailing after Dutch striker Steven Bergwijn unleashed a powerful strike from outside the penalty area in the 21st minute. The goal highlighted Al-Ittihad's clinical edge, a quality that has made them formidable opponents in recent continental competitions.

The momentum shifted dramatically in the 37th minute when Al-Ittihad's Muhannad Al-Shanqeeti received a straight red card, reducing the Saudi side to ten men. This numerical advantage would prove crucial as Al Wahda began to assert their dominance in the second half.

Missed Opportunities Nearly Cost Al Wahda

The UAE side's wastefulness in front of goal almost proved costly in the opening stages of the second half. Syrian striker Omar Khrbin came agonizingly close to equalizing when his powerful header struck the crossbar in the 50th minute, followed by an even more glaring miss just four minutes later.

Khrbin's one-on-one opportunity, set up by a perfectly weighted pass from Tadić, seemed destined for the back of the net until the striker blazed his shot over the bar. These missed chances exemplified the fine margins that often decide Champions League encounters.

The Comeback Unfolds

Al Wahda's persistence finally paid dividends in the 62nd minute when Caio Canedo found the equalizer, capitalizing on Khrbin's redemptive assist. The goal energized both the team and the home crowd, setting up a grandstand finish.

Lucas Pimenta emerged as the unlikely hero, scoring the decisive goal eight minutes into stoppage time. The Brazilian's winner not only secured three vital points but also announced Al Wahda's serious intentions in this season's competition.

Strategic Implications for UAE Football

This victory represents more than just three points for Al Wahda—it signals the continued rise of UAE football on the continental stage. The club's ability to overcome a quality opponent like Al-Ittihad, who have significant experience in Asian competitions, demonstrates the growing competitiveness of Emirati clubs.

The result also highlights the importance of squad depth and mental fortitude in the AFC Champions League Elite format. Al Wahda's comeback victory against a ten-man but still dangerous Al-Ittihad side shows they possess the character needed for deep tournament runs.

Looking Ahead

This opening victory provides Al Wahda with crucial momentum as they navigate what promises to be a challenging group stage. The performance against Al-Ittihad, particularly their second-half resilience, suggests they have the tactical flexibility and mental strength to compete with Asia's elite clubs throughout the tournament.