Al-Shabab vs Sur Match Recap - Jan 7, 2026

Al-Shabab Dominates Sur, Solidifying Their Top-Five Position

Al-Shabab's 3-1 victory over Sur not only secures three crucial points but also highlights the stark contrast in their recent forms. With this win, Al-Shabab climbs to fifth place in the standings, showcasing their attacking prowess while Sur remains mired in relegation trouble, sitting at twelfth with just four points.

Kenyan's early goal set the tone for Al-Shabab, who have now scored 11 goals in their last five matches. This performance underscores their offensive capabilities, particularly after a disappointing exit from the Sultan Cup against Dhofar. Kenyan's consistency is noteworthy; he has been a key figure in their attack, netting multiple times in recent outings, including a brace against Al Nasr just weeks prior. His ability to find the back of the net early in matches has become a hallmark of Al-Shabab's strategy, allowing them to dictate the pace and flow of games.

Al Maamari's contribution further solidified Al-Shabab's dominance. His goal not only showcased his finishing ability but also emphasized the team's depth in attacking options. After a mixed bag of results leading up to this match, including a loss to Smail, Al-Shabab needed this performance to regain momentum. The victory serves as a reminder that they can bounce back from setbacks and maintain their position among the league's contenders.

Sur's struggles continue to deepen, with this match marking their sixth loss in eight games. Their inability to convert chances into goals has been a recurring theme, as evidenced by their average of just 0.5 goals scored per game over the last five matches. The lone goal they managed against Al-Shabab came too late to influence the outcome, highlighting their ongoing issues with offensive cohesion. Despite a brief spark in their cup match against Bahla, where they secured a 2-1 victory, Sur has failed to build on that momentum.

The defensive frailties of Sur were once again exposed, conceding three goals against an Al-Shabab side that has shown they can capitalize on mistakes. Averaging two goals conceded per game, Sur's backline has struggled to maintain organization under pressure. This match was no different, as they failed to contain Al-Shabab's attacking threats, leading to a comprehensive defeat that leaves them searching for answers.

Key players like Mohammed al-Ghamdi have shown flashes of brilliance but lack consistent support from teammates. His efforts alone cannot salvage a team that has struggled to find its identity this season. Sur's reliance on individual performances rather than cohesive team play has proven detrimental, and they must find a way to rally together if they hope to escape the relegation zone.

Looking ahead, Al-Shabab will face Al-Rustaq next, where they will aim to build on this momentum and solidify their top-five position. Their recent form suggests they are capable of continuing this upward trajectory. Conversely, Sur will host Ibri, desperately needing points to avoid further entrenchment in the relegation battle. The stakes could not be higher for both teams as they navigate the challenges ahead.

This match encapsulated the ongoing narratives for both clubs: Al-Shabab's resurgence and potential playoff aspirations versus Sur's fight for survival. The contrasting fortunes of these teams serve as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of football and the fine margins that can define a season.