"I need you all in the match." Those were the words of Sharjah coach Cosmin Olaroiu to the fans ahead of their AFC Champions League quarter-final second leg against Shabab Al Ahli. And they responded, filling the 15,000-capacity Sharjah Stadium days before the game.
Their presence, combined with a resolute defensive display and a heroic performance from goalkeeper Adel Al Hosani, helped Sharjah make history by reaching the semi-finals after a dramatic penalty shootout.
We achieved a historic result against a very distinguished team. I told the players that we would not win unless they exceeded their potential and gave 120% of their effort and dedication. Indeed, the spirit of the players and fans was the secret to the victory. We must maintain our level until we achieve our goal.
Despite the victory, the Romanian coach remained tight-lipped about his future, stating, "I am currently focused on my work, and I am committed to my contract until it expires in about two months."
The first-ever all-Emirati AFC Champions League quarter-final showdown lived up to expectations. The first leg at Shabab Al Ahli Stadium ended 1-1, and the second leg in Sharjah mirrored that result through extra time, forcing the decisive penalty shootout. In the end, Sharjah triumphed 5-4 over a star-studded Shabab Al Ahli side that had been the favourites.
Caio Lucas, who has been drafted into the UAE team for the forthcoming World Cup qualifiers against Iran and North Korea, was elated with the teams effort.
I'm happy with the win and for qualifying for the semi-finals. We now have to prepare for the next stage.
Sharjah Club is my home and the place where I feel the spirit and warmth of the family. I have nothing to say except that I will give everything for Sharjah team. I have to help the team. Being selected as a player for the national team is also wonderful thing. I will strive to give everything I have for the team.
Goalkeeper Adel Al Hosani, who came up with some brilliant saves under the bar, said: “It was a great match. When you have the support, you have to give your best, and that's what we did in front of our fans.
Penalty shoot out depend on luck, but it’s important to study the opposing players’ kick, which is what I did. All credit also goes to my teammates as they were exceptional on the field.
Shabab Al Ahli coach Paulo Sousa acknowledged his team’s misfortune.
We missed numerous opportunities, and the referee disallowed a goal for us. I am proud of my players and wish Sharjah success in their Asian campaign.
Sharjah's defensive masterclass neutralised key threats, including Iranian striker Sardar Azmoun and Brazilian attackers Yuri Cesar and Matias. Despite being the AFC Champions League's leading scorer with nine goals, Azmoun failed to find the net, a testament to Sharjah’s zonal defence strategy. Caio Lucas, Sharjah’s key attacking weapon, also could not add to his tally after scoring in the first leg.
Goalkeeper Al Hosani emerged as the hero, standing firm against waves of Shabab Al Ahli attacks. His crucial save against Quan Santos’ penalty proved decisive. His performance throughout the campaign has been vital, with Sharjah conceding just nine goals and scoring 14, in contrast to Shabab Al Ahli’s 12 conceded and 18 scored.
The rivalry between the two clubs extends beyond the AFC Champions League. Shabab Al Ahli leads the ADNOC Pro League with 47 points, seven ahead of second-placed Sharjah. The two sides will also clash in the two-leg Emirates Cup semi-finals, adding to an intense March schedule that includes five encounters across three competitions.
For Shabab Al Ahli fans, the defeat was a crushing blow. They had hoped to see their team advance, knowing that the semi-final would be against Saudi Arabia’s Al Taawoun, a formidable but beatable opponent. However, Olaroiu, who once led Shabab Al Ahli to the AFC Champions League final in 2015, returned to eliminate them this time.
Sharjah now carries the UAE’s hopes on the continental stage, as Al Ain, Al Wasl, and Shabab Al Ahli have all been eliminated, along with Al Nasr’s exit from the Gulf Clubs Cup. Their journey continues, and with the spirit shown in this historic victory, they will aim to go even further.
