Al Nasr carved out a nail-biting 1-0 win against visiting rivals Al Ain, marking a dramatic conclusion to matchweek five of the ADNOC Pro League
From the get-go, Al Ain showcased a fierce offensive strategy, as Togolese forward Laba Kodjo found himself with a golden opportunity just 4 minutes in. Having sidestepped Al Nasr's keeper, Ahmed Shambih, his shot sailed tantalizingly over the crossbar, denying the visitors an early lead.
Kodjo's efforts didn’t wane, and in the 9th minute, he was once again at the forefront, receiving a deft pass from Yahia Nader. However, a swift turn and ground-level shot narrowly missed its mark, brushing past Al Nasr's right post.
Al Nasr's Adel Taarabt squandered what could have been a pivotal moment in the 31st minute. With Al Ain's goalkeeper, Khalid Eisa, conspicuously absent from his post, Taarabt’s shot was heroically deflected by defender Erik Jorgens, keeping the scores level as the first half concluded.
The deadlock finally shattered in the 71st minute, with Memisevic firing a scorching strike from outside the penalty box, ensuring Al Nasr stood alone on the scoreboard. This goal marks the sixth of the last 13 Al Nasr has netted against Al Ain from beyond the penalty area.
Al Ain were forced to navigate the closing 10 minutes a man down after substitute Jonatas Santos saw a second yellow, and consequently red, in the 82nd minute, culminating in a tense finale that witnessed Al Nasr reigning supreme.
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