Fabinho Sparks Brazil Recall as Ittihad Dominate Sharjah 3-0: Derby Hopes Loom
4 November 2025
Celebrating the return of the “Dean” to the Samba squad, Al-Ittihad crushed Sharjah 3-0 in the AFC Champions League Elite, signaling continued momentum in the West Asia group stage.
Al-Ittihad moved to 6 points with a second consecutive win after their 4-1 triumph over Iraqi Police in the previous round, and they sit sixth in the West Asia group with two wins and two losses.
The Saudi side started with high energy, pressing Sharjah high and using a solid defensive block to fuel rapid transitions, especially on the right, where Diaby and Shenqiti caused consistent trouble and the opening goal arrived from a superb cross that was finished decisively.
First bite: Key moments and quotes
Dutch winger Steven Berghuis noted that the performance was solid, the goal came early, and the team is building momentum for more wins ahead. He praised the timing and quality of the cross that set up the opener and stressed the importance of keeping this level going.
Moses Diaby added that while the display could improve, the result and the points matter most, and the squad will keep pushing in the coming games.
Return to Brazil and friend’s message
Brazilian star Fabinho expressed great joy at rejoining the national team after three years away, saying he had worked hard with the club to earn recall. He thanked those who reached out with kind messages, which boosted his morale and his form with the team.
Igor Coronado echoed the sentiment, saying it’s wonderful to play again in front of this backing crowd and praising the Union’s supporters. He congratulated Fabinho on his Brazil return and wished the team continued success.
Looking ahead: Derby and tactical notes
The piece closes with a note on the upcoming derby against Al-Ahli in the Saudi Pro League, as Ittihad aims to rebound from recent results and climb the table. The team currently sits eighth with 11 points and will be eager for a victory to build momentum toward the top.
Two light-hearted lines to close: If precision were a rifle, this team just fired three perfect shots—call it a triple espresso finish. And if patience is a virtue, the derby against Al-Ahli will be a saint’s test—good thing the fans brought the relief fund.
