Gameweek 23 of the UAE Pro League added another layer of intrigue to the season, with the city’s clubs delivering a mix of composed performances and hard-fought results.
As the campaign edges towards its final stretch, every point is carrying extra weight, and last week was no exception.
Kalba 1 – 2 FC Baniyas 2 (Thursday 23rd April 2026)
On Thursday evening, FC Baniyas once again demonstrated their resilience in a closely contested fixture against Kalba.
While not always the most expansive side, their ability to stay organised and compete physically continues to serve them well, and it has looked to ensure they solidify their status as a Pro League club.

Nemanja Dekovic’s 76th-minute goal was the decisive moment, and with the team picking up points in tight encounters, it has become something of a hallmark of their staying competitive in this league.
Sharjah 0 -2 Al Wahda (Thursday 23rd April 2026)
Al Wahda produced a confident performance to secure a valuable result last Thursday, showing cohesion at both ends of the pitch.
Caio Canedo opened the scoring in the 18th minute, with their attacking movement sharp and their defensive structure firm. It was a tight fixture, with both Sharjah and Al Wahda creating good chances throughout.

However, with Al Wahda’s consistency, they are a tough team to break down and are positioning themselves for a strong finish as they aim for third spot.
Al Bataeh 0 – 2 Al Ain (Thursday 23rd April 2026)
Al Ain are now seven points clear at the top of the table, as they continue to underline their title credentials with another controlled display.
Scoring after six minutes through Laba Kodjo’s penalty, they managed the game with full control, balancing attacking intent with defensive discipline, which has been the story of their season so far.

Picking up crucial points once again, they remain firmly in control at the top, with momentum still very much in their favour.
Al Nasr 3 – 2 Al Jazira (Friday 24th April 2026)
Despite a strong effort and proud display, Al Jazira fell short last week in Dubai and were unable to give themselves any leeway in third place.
Vinicius Mello looked to secure a critical away point after an impressive brace. But in the 73rd minute, Al Nasr got the fifth goal of the game, which gave them all three points.

Although all eyes are on the top two as they battle it out for the title, the race for third place and a chance to achieve a spot in the AFC Champions League Elite is becoming just as thrilling.
Upcoming Fixtures – Game Week 24:
- Ajman vs. Al Jazira (5th May 2026)
- FC Baniyas vs. Al Dhafra (5th May 2026)
- Al Wahda vs. Al Wasl (6th May 2026)
- Sharjah vs. Al Ain (6th May 2026)
As the run-in approaches, the intensity is only expected to rise. The capital’s clubs are all looking to maintain momentum, minimise slip-ups, and capitalise on every opportunity as there is still all to play for in the league.
Follow Secret Abu Dhabi for more news, events, and updates in the capital and beyond.

