Al Wasl SC U23 and Al Ittihad Kalba U23 shared the points in a competitive 1-1 draw at Zabeel Stadium on 22 August 2026, with the result leaving both teams level in the early-season UAE Under-23 league standings.

The match had entertainment value from the first whistle, as Al Wasl pushed to control possession and Kalba grew into the game with each passing minute. The hosts eventually got the breakthrough they deserved, but the character shown by the visitors after the interval earned them a creditable equaliser.

Match overview

Al Wasl's academy has long been regarded as one of the strongest in the Emirates, and their Under-23 side showcased exactly why in the opening period. Quick combinations in midfield and incisive runs off the ball regularly threatened the Kalba rearguard. The home side took a deserved lead in the 32nd minute, finishing off a swift move with a clinical shot across the goalkeeper.

Kalba, however, refused to collapse. A more aggressive pressing game after the restart unsettled Al Wasl, and the equaliser arrived in the 68th minute when a corner kick was met at the near post and prodded home. The closing exchanges were stretched, with both goalkeepers forced into sharp saves as the game finished with a fair share of excitement.

Key moments

• 32' – Al Wasl take the lead: a well-worked passing move ends with a composed finish into the bottom corner.
• 68' – Kalba equalise: the visitors level from a set piece, arriving first to a corner to convert from short range.
• 84' – Double save: the Kalba goalkeeper denies Al Wasl twice in quick succession to preserve a point.

Standout performers

Al Wasl's midfield conductor stood out with his vision and sharp distribution, while Kalba's defensive block held firm under sustained pressure. The visitors' centre-forward also deserves credit for his tireless pressing, which unsettled the home side throughout the final half-hour.

Season impact

The draw gives Al Wasl SC U23 and Al Ittihad Kalba U23 one point apiece and a useful reference point for their next fixtures. With the UAE U23 league developing new talent every round, contests like this underline the growing depth of the country's youth pathway.