Shabab Al Ahli Dubai Triumphs Over Nasaf in a Fiery AFC Elite Encounter

Match recap

Shabab Al Ahli Dubai secured a commanding 4-1 victory against Nasaf Karshi at Rashid Stadium in Dubai, during the third match of the West region group stage of the AFC Asian Champions League Elite 2025-2026.

The UAE side took the lead early and never looked back, with Kartabia opening the scoring in the 8th minute, followed by Renan Victor in the 26th, Matheus Lima in the 41st, and Bruno sealing the win in stoppage time at 90+5.

Nasaf managed a late reply through Abdulrahmanov in the 10th minute, but Shabab Al Ahli held firm and extended their advantage, lifting their tally to 7 points after drawing with Tractor in Dubai and beating Al Ittihad in Jeddah earlier in the campaign.

Nasaf remains point-less after this defeat, having previously lost to Al Ahli Saudi in Jeddah and to Al Hilal in Qarshi. The match featured early pressure with several corners for Shabab Al Ahli and a robust display in attack and defense from the Emirati side.

Both teams lined up in a 4-3-3 system. Shabab Al Ahli’s lineup featured a solid backline and an attacking front four, including Munis Debor and Lima, while Nasaf deployed a similar formation aiming to counter on the break. The hosts controlled the tempo for large spells, threatening with quick combinations and precise finishes.

In the second half, Nasaf pushed for a comeback and enjoyed moments of dominance, but Shabab Al Ahli’s defense held under pressure, and a late goal from Bruno capped a polished display as the clock wound down.

Next up, the West region schedule continues on November 3-4, with Nasaf facing UAE side Al Wahda in Qarshi, and Shabab Al Ahli meeting Al Duhail in Doha. The group stage will feature eight matches per team, with the top eight from each region qualifying for the Round of 16 in March 2026.

Bringing the curtain down, Nasaf’s hunt for a first win remains elusive, while Shabab Al Ahli strengthened their position at the top of the standings. The tactical battle, relentless pace, and dramatic late flourish gave fans a match to remember as the ACL Elite races toward its knockout phase.

Punchline 1: Even Nasaf’s coach felt the scoreboard weigh heavier than his last vacation—at least the heat was paid in goals, not sunburns.

Punchline 2: If football were a quiz, Shabab Al Ahli just earned an A+ for taking Nasaf to “where the goals are.”