Congolese striker Benik Afobe helps Al Arabi earn draw against Dubai City
Benik Afobe played a key role as Al Arabi secured a 2-2 draw against Dubai City in the fifth round of the United Arab Emirates Division Two League.
The Congolese forward helped his side collect a valuable away point in a contest that swung dramatically across both halves.
Al Arabi started the game strongly, taking a two-goal lead before Dubai City struck back to level the score.
Afobe’s team showed confidence in the early stages, controlling possession and breaking through Dubai City’s defence twice before the interval.
However, a lapse in concentration allowed the hosts to pull one back just before half-time, setting up a tense second half.
Dubai City equalised midway through the second period, capitalising on defensive errors that Al Arabi could not correct in time.
Despite several attempts to restore their advantage, Afobe and his teammates failed to convert late chances, leaving both sides to share the points.
The draw denied Al Arabi the opportunity to claim a third straight league victory, a result that would have boosted their early-season momentum.
Still, the team can take positives from their attacking performance, which continues to show improvement with every game.
Afobe, who joined Al Arabi earlier this season, continues to make a strong impression in familiar territory.
The former Arsenal academy striker previously played for Al Dhafra and Al Hatta between 2023 and 2024 before returning to the UAE to revive his career.
So far, he has scored once in the league and three times in all competitions, offering his side much-needed experience and composure in front of goal.
His form suggests a growing confidence as he settles back into the rhythm of UAE football.
Al Arabi now sit eighth in the standings with seven points after five matches.
The team aims to climb higher when they host Al Dahra on Sunday, November 2.
Coach and supporters alike will expect Afobe to continue leading from the front as the team pushes for consistency in a competitive campaign.
His influence on and off the pitch remains vital to Al Arabi’s ambitions this season.
