Baniyas first team bowed out of the Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank Cup preliminary round following a narrow 1-0 defeat to Khorfakkan in the second leg played this evening at Baniyas Stadium in Al Shamkha. The result saw the visitors advance to the next round with an aggregate score of 3-2, after the first leg ended in a 2-2 draw.

The match started at a high tempo, with Baniyas pushing forward early in search of a breakthrough and looking to capitalize on home advantage and the strong support from the stands. Despite creating a number of opportunities in the opening minutes, the Sky Blues were unable to convert their dominance into goals. Against the run of play, Khorfakkan took the lead in the 20th minute through Pedro Pavlov, who headed home from close range following a well-delivered cross.

After conceding, Baniyas responded with sustained pressure and several dangerous attacks. Youssoufou Niakate came close with a powerful effort denied by the goalkeeper, while Saviour Godwin and Ahmed Fawzi both tested the Khorfakkan defense with long-range attempts. However, the visitors remained compact at the back and their goalkeeper produced crucial saves to preserve the lead.

In the second half, Baniyas increased their intensity and controlled possession, moving the ball with fluidity across midfield in search of the equalizer. The Sky Blues created multiple scoring chances, including a close header from Niakate that went just wide of the post and a one-on-one opportunity for Godwin that failed to find the target. Despite dominating large periods of play, the finishing touch was missing, and Khorfakkan held firm under pressure.

The closing stages saw head coach Ivaylo Petev introduce more attacking options in a final push to rescue the game. Baniyas continued to press relentlessly, with the home fans rallying behind the team, but the equalizing goal never arrived. The referee’s final whistle confirmed a 1-0 defeat on the night and elimination from the competition at the preliminary stage.

Although disappointed with the result, the coaching staff praised the team’s effort and commitment, emphasizing that the focus will now shift to correcting mistakes, improving efficiency in front of goal, and preparing strongly for the upcoming challenges in the ADNOC Pro League. The club reaffirmed its full confidence in the squad and coaching staff, trusting in their ability to bounce back quickly and deliver performances worthy of Baniyas and its loyal supporters.