⚽ First Division, Match Day 4
📅 Saturday, April 27, 2025
📍 Al-Nasr Academy Field, Dubai, UAE
In the fourth round of the First Division, Banaat FC made their return to league action against Empire FC. The squad welcomed back vice-captain, Farah Alzaben after returning from injury. Despite a spirited performance, Banaat FC were unable to secure the three points, as a slow start in the first half allowed Empire FC to take an early lead.
Empire FC opened the scoring in the 22nd minute, but Banaat FC had an answer. Left winger Angelina Bouhatoum played in a ball to striker Manela Donyoh, who found herself 1v1 with the goalkeeper and calmly slotted the ball into the far-right corner to level the match at 1-1.
Just before the halftime break, Empire capitalized on an opportunity to reclaim the lead, entering the second half with a 2-1 advantage.
The second half remained a hard-fought battle, with Banaat FC pressing for an equalizer. Unfortunately, a defensive error during a corner kick allowed Empire to extend their lead with a third goal, giving them a two-goal cushion.
Still pushing forward, Banaat FC found a breakthrough late in the match when another cross from Bouhatoum set up Mel Hoekstra for a well-placed header in the box, narrowing the gap and keeping the contest alive.
Late match drama continued after Stella Fedyunin, weaved past the Empire defence and was able to get a shot on goal. Unfortunately, the goal was called off side due to Caye Yocor's efforts to ensure the ball found the back of the net.
In the final stages of the match, Banaat FC struggled to control the tempo, making it difficult to find a late equalizer. Despite a strong effort until the end, the team ultimately fell short. The team remains focused on learning from this match and is determined to keep pushing for stronger performances in every game ahead. Banaat FC is back in action in their rematch vs GoPro on Wednesday April 30th.
