⚽️ UAE Women's League, MD 1
📅 Sunday November 16, 2025
📍 Dubai, UAE
In the opening match of the 25/26 season, we came out with a statement 4-1 win on the road against Precision. Despite falling behind the scoreline in the first half, it wasn’t the start we wanted but it brought exactly the response we needed to show.
Once we settled into the match, new signing Bogi Tramontini made an immediate impact, scoring twice in her first team debut. Her brace brought us level and pushed us ahead, shifting the momentum in our favour.
Leen Al-Haj added our third before halftime, guiding a composed finish into the bottom-right corner after a well-timed through ball from Safa Shafi. At the other end, Amna Hussein kept us secure with several important saves, ensuring we went into the break 3-1, and kept a clean sheet in the second half.
Applying pressure upfront we forced a turnover allowing Melanie Hoekstra to latch onto it and find the back of the net making the score 4-1.
From front to back, this was a performance built on discipline, intensity, and mentality. Especially after the difficult end to last season, the Lilacs sent a clear message in their performance: we’re back, and we’re ready.
Coach Kevin Palma noted the team’s discipline and mentality throughout the match.
“Precision were organised and moved the ball well, but we had a clear game plan and the girls stuck to it. Even after going 1-0 down, the reaction was excellent: no panic, just positive energy and a desire to get back into the game.
The squad understood their roles, stayed disciplined, and were clinical when the chances came. We’ve been working a lot on our finishing, so it was great to see that confidence in front of goal. A strong start, and plenty to build on.”
Banaat FC returns to action on Sunday, November 23rd, with a 7pm away kickoff against Onyx FC.
