Rising Stars of Emirati Futsal Teams Shine in Season Opener

Shabab Al-Ahli dominated the opening round of the UAE Indoor Football League with a commanding 5-2 victory over Al-Yarmouk on Sunday, while two other matches delivered high-scoring entertainment that signals an exciting season ahead for the indoor football competition.

Brazilian striker Francisco Matheus stole the show for Shabab Al-Ahli, netting a hat-trick that put the match beyond doubt. Ahmed bin Hammad and fellow Brazilian Ludogildo Augusto added the remaining goals. Al-Yarmouk managed to respond through Mohammed Yassen and Abdullah Al-Naqbi, but it wasn't enough to prevent a heavy defeat.

The evening's other fixture between Al-Bataeh and Khor Fakkan proved equally thrilling, with the home side edging out their visitors 5-4 in a nine-goal thriller. Al-Bataeh's attack was led by Brazilian Anderson da Silva, who scored twice, supported by compatriot Gustavo Martinez and Sudanese player Abdel Qader Haj Al-Siddiq. Abdullah Al-Falasi also found the net for the hosts.

Khor Fakkan fought back valiantly, with Spanish player Marc Campas completing his own hat-trick. But an unfortunate own goal from Al-Bataeh's Abdullah Al-Muhiri ultimately wasn't enough to secure a point for the visitors.

Kalba rounded off the opening round with a comfortable 4-0 win over Dibba Al-Hisn at their home venue. Brazilian duo Lucas Nunez and Johnny Santos led the scoring, with Nunez grabbing a brace. Iraqi midfielder Ali Khudair completed the rout.

The high-scoring start to the season suggests fans can expect plenty of goals and entertainment throughout the campaign. Indoor football's fast-paced nature was on full display, with 18 goals scored across just three matches. The strong presence of international players, particularly from Brazil, indicates the league continues to attract quality talent from abroad.