Merreikh Kosti vs Al Ahli Khartoum Match Recap - Jan 16, 2026

Stalemate in Khartoum: Merreikh Kosti and Al Ahli Khartoum Fail to Find the Net

Defensive resilience overshadowed attacking ambition as Merreikh Kosti and Al Ahli Khartoum played to a goalless draw, leaving both teams grappling with their recent form. This match marked a continuation of struggles for both sides, with Al Ahli now winless in their last four outings, while Merreikh remains without a victory this season.

Al Ahli Khartoum entered this fixture with a record of two draws and three losses in their last five matches, struggling to convert chances into goals. Their average of 1.38 expected goals (xG) per game starkly contrasts with their actual tally of just five goals this season. The inability to capitalize on opportunities has become a hallmark of their play, and this match only reinforced that narrative.

Merreikh Kosti, on the other hand, has been even more beleaguered, failing to score in their last two matches and conceding three goals during that span. Their xG of 0.75 per match paints a grim picture of their attacking capabilities. The lack of offensive firepower was evident once again, as they struggled to create meaningful chances against a defense that has also been shaky at times.

The absence of standout performances from key players like Omer Ehab for Al Ahli and Musa El-Jalabi for Merreikh further compounded the issues for both teams. Ehab, who had shown flashes of brilliance in previous matches, could not find the rhythm needed to unlock the opposing defense. Similarly, El-Jalabi's struggles in front of goal continued, leaving Merreikh without a reliable source of creativity or finishing.

Recent form suggested that this match would be tightly contested, and it did not disappoint in that regard. Both teams exhibited a cautious approach, prioritizing defensive solidity over offensive flair. The result leaves Al Ahli Khartoum in third place with nine points from eight matches, while Merreikh Kosti remains at the bottom of the table without a win.

Looking ahead, both teams face critical fixtures that could define their seasons. Merreikh Kosti will travel to face Al Ahli Wad Medani, while Al Ahli Khartoum heads to Umm Mughad. The pressure is mounting for both sides to turn their fortunes around before the season slips further away.

Reflecting on my pre-match prediction, I anticipated a narrow victory for Al Ahli Khartoum, but the reality proved otherwise. The lack of clinical finishing from both sides was evident, and it seems that neither team is ready to seize the moment when it matters most.

This match encapsulated the ongoing struggles of both teams, highlighting the need for tactical adjustments and renewed focus as they navigate through a challenging season. With the stakes rising, the upcoming matches will be crucial for both Merreikh Kosti and Al Ahli Khartoum as they seek to reclaim their competitive edge in the Sudani Premier League.