Al Ahli stun champions Riffa

TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

Al Ahli stunned defending champions Riffa 1-0 last night in a thrilling week two clash of the 2022/2023 Nasser bin Hamad Bahrain Premier Football League.

Riffa’s Ali Jawher scored the game’s long goal; unfortunately, it was into his own net, as Ahli were able to escape with the win with just two minutes remaining in regular time.

Substitute Artem Serdyuk sent in a low cross from the right wing and it remained unclaimed as it reached the face of goal.

The ball then found its way to Jawher, who tapped the ball in past his own goalkeeper as he tried to make a clearance.

Ahli continued to press for a second goal after taking the lead, but Jawher’s error proved to be enough to separate the two sides.

Riffa could have gone ahead minutes earlier through Bahrain international midfielder Ali Haram, who had an effort in the 78th minute as part of a promising counterattack by Riffa.

But his header went wide of the target. Serdyuk also had a chance for Ahli in the 84th minute, but he hit his header in the face of goal off the mark.

Both teams had opportunities throughout the match, but neither could apply the finishing touches.

With the result, Ahli claimed their second win in as many matches to start the new league campaign.

They improved to six points and are behind only Muharraq on the table due to goal difference. Riffa, on the other hand, dropped their first game and remained on three points in the top half of the standings.

League action continues on Thursday later this week with the first three matches of week three.

That evening, Al Hala take on Manama, while Muharraq face off with East Riffa. Ahli will also be back on the pitch against Sitra.

Then, on Friday, Riffa will be locking horns with Bahrain Club.

Al Shabab will also take on Budaiya while Hidd face off with Al Khaldiya.

All matches on each day are to take place at separate venues.