Al Wasl SC U23 Overpowers Al Ittihad Kalba U23 in UAE U23 Goal Fest

A thrilling encounter in the UAE U23 league on 16 May 2026 saw Al Wasl SC U23 emerge 5-3 victors over Al Ittihad Kalba U23. The match at Kalba’s stadium was a showcase of young attacking talent, with eight goals shared between two sides that refused to take a backward step.

Match Overview

Al Wasl stormed into a 3-0 lead within the first 30 minutes, exposing a shaky Kalba defence with quick combination play and clinical finishing. The home side pulled one back before half-time through a penalty, but Wasl restored their three-goal advantage early in the second half. Kalba mounted a spirited fightback, scoring twice in 10 minutes to make it 4-3 with 15 minutes remaining. However, Wasl sealed the victory with a fifth goal in stoppage time.

Key Moments

• 10' – Wasl opens scoring: A breakaway goal finished with a low drive.
• 22' – Wasl doubles lead: A curling free kick from 25 yards.
• 29' – Wasl makes it three: A tap-in after a defensive error.
• 42' – Kalba penalty: A spot-kick halved the deficit.
• 51' – Wasl fourth goal: A header from a corner.
• 63' – Kalba strikes back: A long-range effort into the top corner.
• 73' – Kalba scores again: A cross deflected in for 4-3.
• 90+3' – Wasl fifth goal: A counter-attack sealed the win.

Tactical Story

Al Wasl played with a high defensive line and pressed aggressively, forcing Kalba into mistakes. Their midfielders made intelligent runs beyond the strikers. Kalba’s approach was more direct, using long balls and set pieces to create chances. The game became stretched in the second half as both sides sought goals, leading to a chaotic but entertaining contest.

Standout Players

Wasl’s attacking midfielder was involved in four goals, showcasing excellent vision and composure. Kalba’s striker netted a brace and was a constant threat despite his team’s defeat. The goalkeepers had little chance for most of the goals, but Wasl’s shot-stopper made a vital save at 4-3 to keep his side ahead.

Season Impact

The victory kept Al Wasl SC U23 firmly in the hunt for the league title, now just two points behind the leaders with three games in hand. Al Ittihad Kalba U23 remained in mid-table, but the defeat highlighted defensive vulnerabilities that need addressing in their remaining fixtures. The high-scoring nature of the match thrilled neutrals and demonstrated the depth of young talent in Emirati football.