Thu, 28 Oct, 2021
Dubai: AFC Champions League 2015 semi-finalists Al Ahli made a winning return to domestic action following their first-leg draw against Al Hilal as prolific Brazilian striker Lima struck both goals in Saturday’s 2-0 Arabian Gulf Cup win over defending champions Al Nasr.
After scoring for the third success AFC Champions League fixture when he netted the opener in the first instalment of the ACL final-four clash with the Saudi Arabian giants, Lima (pictured celebrating at the King Fahd Stadium) continued his prolific form in Saturday’s victory at the Rashid Stadium, with a goal either side of half-time.
The 32-year-old, who has also scored three times in the Arabian Gulf League since joining Al Ahli from Portuguese side Benfica back in July, headed home Humaid Abbas’ corner a minute from the interval before doubling the advantage with a superb strike four minutes after the interval.
Ending Al Nasr’s unbeaten start to the defence of their Arabian Gulf Cup title has taken Al Ahli to the top of the Group A standings, where they sit level with Al Wasl on seven points after three games.
Al Ahli’s attention now turns to the fledgling 2015/16 Arabian Gulf League campaign where Cosmin Olariou’s side will look to follow up their opening two victories when they face Sharjah on October 16 before hosting Al Hilal for the crucial second leg of their AFC Champions League semi-final four days later.
Photo: WSG