The Bur Dubai Derby between Al Nasr and Al Wasl ended in a 1–1 draw at Al Maktoum Stadium, on the opening day of Matchweek 15 of the ADNOC Pro League.
The result marked the first league draw between the two sides since February 2015.
Al Nasr made a strong start and took the lead early in the seventh minute through Jonatas Santos, who capitalised on a precise assist from Ramon Mierez to slot the ball into the net.
Al Wasl responded with increased pressure as the first half progressed, but lacked the final touch in front of goal, while Al Nasr remained dangerous on the break.
Santos went close to adding a second in the 25th minute, and Mierez narrowly missed just before the interval with a header that drifted over the crossbar.
Goalkeeper Ahmed Shambih also produced a crucial save in stoppage time to deny Al Wasl an equaliser, ensuring Al Nasr carried their advantage into the break.
The visitors came out with renewed determination in the second half and found their equaliser in the 52nd minute when M. Borja powered home a header.
The equaliser sparked an open and entertaining contest, with both teams pushing for a winner. Al Wasl goalkeeper Mohamed Ali denied Al Nasr a second goal in the 79th minute, while the crossbar denied Al Wasl dramatically late on when Brahian Palacios struck the woodwork in the 88th minute.
The match ended level, with Al Nasr moving to 20 points in sixth place, while Al Wasl reached 26 points to remain fourth in the standings.
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