The UAE football scene is gearing up for a decisive round in the ADNOC Pro League, as matchweek 24 kicks off on Tuesday and Wednesday, May 5 and 6.
This round could ultimately determine the league champion for the 2025 to 2026 season, while the race for Asian qualification spots intensifies and the battle to avoid relegation reaches a critical stage.
Survival battle headlines Day One
Four fixtures open the round, starting with Ajman hosting Al Jazira at Rashid Bin Saeed Stadium at 18:05. Ajman aim to climb the standings from seventh place with 27 points, while Al Jazira look to consolidate third place and strengthen their bid for elite Asian qualification.
The remaining three fixtures, all kicking off at 20:45, carry a cup final intensity as teams fight to stay afloat.
Bani Yas, tenth with 25 points, host Al Dhafra, who sit second from bottom with 18. Bottom side Dibba face Al Bataeh in a crucial clash, while Kalba take on Khorfakkan in another high stakes encounter.
Three headline clashes on Day Two as title race peaks
The second day begins with a heavyweight clash at 18:05 as Al Wahda host Al Wasl at Al Nahyan Stadium.
Both sides are level on 39 points, with Al Wasl edging ahead in third place. Their historic rivalry adds further intrigue, with Al Wahda holding a narrow advantage of 12 wins to Al Wasl’s 11, alongside 10 draws in 33 league meetings.
The intensity peaks later that evening with two simultaneous fixtures at 20:45. Shabab Al Ahli host Al Nasr, while Sharjah FC face Al Ain FC.
Both Al Ain and Shabab Al Ahli will be closely monitoring each other’s results.
The league leaders hold a six point advantage and stand on the brink of reclaiming the title.
Victory for Al Ain against Sharjah would crown them champions, regardless of Shabab Al Ahli’s result, thanks to their superior head to head record.
However, should Al Ain drop points while Shabab Al Ahli secure a win, the title race will extend into the final two rounds.
With Al Nasr chasing an Asian spot and Sharjah aiming for a strong finish, all possibilities remain open in a gripping battle for the crown.
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