Lima’s bace gives Al Wasl first win
dubai — If this was perhaps the end, it was the perfect way to sign off. Fabio de Lima’s future at the Zabeel Stadium may be up in the air but the young Brazilian conjured another sterling performance to give Al Wasl their first win in the Arabian Gulf League this season.
The 24-year-old fired a brace as The Cheetahs came back from a goal down to stub Emirates’ challenge 3-1 at the Zabeel Stadium on Thursday night.
Fabio de Lima had hinted earlier in the week that this could probably be his last game with The Cheetahs.
Clubs have shown interest in De Lima and a move is a possibility as the UAE transfer window is yet to close. Al Wasl have put a whopping Dh 100 million price on him.
Nonetheless, Fabio de Lima showed why he is their main man. After Emirates had taken a shock lead through Sebastian Saez on 12 minutes, Fabio de Lima unleashed a sharp left-footer from long range to help The Cheetahs draw level. There were no extravagant celebrations though, just a hug to Abdalla Al Naqbi, who had set it up.
Caio Canedo headed Al Wasl into the lead on 54 minutes after which de Lima put the game to bed on 73 minutes. Al Wasl, who were involved in a 2-2 draw with Al Ain on the opening day, moved to second in the table with four points. Emirates, meanwhile, are eighth.
james@khaleejtimes.com