Al Ahli Youth hopes to take another step towards league leaders Al Ain when they host their neighbors Al Wasl at 19:45 in the 33rd Dubai Derby. The match, postponed from the 9th round of the UAE Pro League, is crucial for both teams seeking points as the first half of the season concludes, intensifying their historically fierce rivalry. Historically, the teams are closely matched, with a slight edge to the home side. In their previous 32 encounters, 'Dubai's Knights' have won 13 times compared to Al Wasl's 11, with 8 draws. Al Ahli Youth has scored 53 goals to Al Wasl's 43. For Al Ahli Youth, currently third with 23 points, a win would bring them closer to Al Ain, who lead by 30 points. The team is in good form, having won their last two league matches. Al Ahli Youth's defense has been formidable, conceding just one goal in the last 10 rounds—a solitary goal in their 0:1 loss to Al Ain in September. In the other nine games, the team's goalkeeper, Hamad Al-Makbali, has kept a clean sheet. Al Ahli Youth's coach, Paulo Sousa, said: 'This match is as important as any other in the league race, and we must continue what we have been doing since the beginning of the year.' He also praised the team's fans, emphasizing the importance of their support both home and away. Meanwhile, Al Wasl, sitting fourth with 22 points, knows a win is vital to keep their title hopes alive, especially after being eliminated from the President's Cup and the League Cup. Al Wasl's coach, Massoud Miral, stated: 'Al Ahli Youth is a good team, but we are Al Wasl, and we will play a match that befits the club's name.'
