Muharraq Keep Pressure on Leaders

TDT | Manama

Email : hussainm@newsofbahrain.com

Matchweek 12 of the Nasser bin Hamad Premier League saw two key fixtures yesterday, with Muharraq edging Al Ahli 1-0 in Bahrain’s El Clasico at Khalifa Sports City, while Sitra secured a 1-0 victory over Bahrain Club at Shaikh Ali bin Mohammed Stadium.

In Sitra’s clash against Bahrain Club, the breakthrough came in the 38th minute. Ali Nasser played out wide to Karl, who squared the ball to Othman Al Hajj. The striker finished first-time with a composed strike into the left corner, giving Sitra a crucial lead. Despite Bahrain Club’s efforts, the hosts held firm to claim all three points, strengthening their mid-table position.

Meanwhile, Muharraq and Al Ahli produced a tense encounter. The decisive moment arrived in the 80th minute when Juninho scored the winner. A cross was delivered into the box, Arthur Rezende headed it into a dangerous area, and under intense pressure from Al Ahli captain Baqer Alasfoor, Juninho stretched high to connect and slot the ball home. The goal secured Muharraq three vital points and keeps them within striking distance of leaders Al Khaldiya.

Yesterday’s results leave Al Khaldiya at the top of the table with 30 points, three clear of Muharraq, who sit second with 27 points. Sitra’s win moves them to 15 points in sixth place, while Al Ahli remain in ninth with 12 points and Bahrain Club fight to climb from 11th with six points.

Earlier this season, in the reverse fixtures, Sitra defeated Bahrain Club 4-1, and Muharraq recorded a 3-0 victory over Al Ahli. With the title race tightening, every point will count as the league heads into its final stages.