⚽️ UAE Womens League, MD 7
📅 Saturday, April 4, 2026
📍 Dubai
The 2026 UAE Women’s League continues to intensify as the season progresses, with Banaat FC firmly establishing themselves as title contenders. Entering their seventh match of the campaign, the team travelled to Al Khawaneej on Sunday, 5th April, determined to deliver another strong performance and maintain momentum in the league.
Preparation and Squad Developments Ahead of Kick-Off
Banaat FC approached the fixture focused on sharp attacking movement and maintaining control in possession, building on recent strong performances in the league. Training sessions in the lead-up to the match emphasised quick transitions and effective use of wide areas, enabling the team to stretch opposition defences and sustain pressure in the final third.
The match also marked an important milestone for the squad, as U17 player Lina was included in the squad and made her senior debut — reflecting the club’s ongoing commitment to developing young talent within the first-team environment.
Fast Start Sets the Tone
Banaat FC wasted no time asserting themselves, breaking the deadlock inside the opening minute. Salha passed a accurate long ball to Bogi, who finished confidently to give Banaat an immediate advantage.
The early momentum continued as defender Shujoun doubled the lead in the 14th minute, marking her first goal for the club.
Banaat maintained control throughout the first half, circulating the ball effectively and repeatedly breaking through defensive lines. Their dominance was reflected again in the 39th minute when Bogi struck once more with a finish to send Banaat into half-time 3–0 ahead.
Second Half Control and Attacking Dominance
Although 971 WFC pulled a goal back shortly after the restart in the 48th minute, Banaat responded immediately, regaining control of the game.
Bogi completed her hat-trick in the 60th minute, finishing clinically from an well-deserved assist by Caye. Caye then added a goal of her own in the 73rd minute after continued pressure in the final third.
Bogi went on to produce one of the standout moments of the match in the 78th minute, curling a superb free-kick into the top corner to complete a brilliant four-goal performance.
The attacking link-up between Bogi and Caye consistently created problems for the oppositions defence and created high-quality chances.
In the closing stages, substitute Celine made an immediate impact, scoring her first goal for the club in the 90th minute after receiving a cross delivered by Bogi.
Despite a physical contest at times, with 971 WFC receiving two yellow cards for unsportsmanlike behaviour, Banaat maintained discipline and composure throughout. The team controlled possession, limited opposition chances, and consistently converted attacking pressure into goals, underlining a complete team performance.
Post-Match Reflections
Coach Kevin praised the team’s overall display, highlighting their organisation and execution of the game plan. “We aimed to dominate both defensively and in possession, and the team delivered an excellent performance. It was very satisfying to see the plans we worked on in training translate effectively onto the pitch. All in all, it was a well-rounded and impressive performance from the whole group.”
Looking Ahead
With this emphatic 8–1 victory, Banaat FC continue to apply pressure at the top of the table as the title race intensifies.
The team will look to carry this momentum into their next league fixture on Friday 17th April, when they return home to Al Nasr Club for an 8:30pm kick-off against Juniors, as they continue their push for top spot.
Written by Lily Hardman, Banaat FC Junior Intern
