RIT Dubai faced LPFC in a friendly match at Kings Al Barsha on 9th October 2024, with the match kicking off at 8:30 pm. The encounter ended in a convincing 3-1 victory for RIT Dubai, showcasing their attacking prowess and resilience.
RIT Dubai adopted a 4-2-3-1 formation, which allowed them to balance defensive solidity with attacking flair. In goal, Francois Motte provided a strong presence, while the back four consisted of Omar Remawi on the right, Anas Bukdida on the left, and the central pairing of Husnain Khan and Aws Dashash. The midfield duo of Ahmed Qadourah and Abdulrahman Al Hanafi was tasked with linking play and providing support to the attacking trio. Artur Farhutdinov operated on the right, Mohamed AlSayed in the central attacking role, and Ahmed Mattar on the left, with Mohamed Razvin leading the line as the striker. The substitutes included Masoud Barahoey, Hussam Alazzah, Nariman Samani, Omar Ali, Yesa Aamir, Mohamed Chahine, Nikita Beryukov, Hazza Yateem, and Mohsin Ayaz.
The match began with RIT Dubai looking to assert their dominance, and Artur Farhutdinov made an early attempt on goal in the 10th minute, signalling their intent. However, it was LPFC who struck first, taking the lead in the 13th minute with a stunning effort from outside the area, scored with the right foot, leaving Motte with no chance.
RIT Dubai responded swiftly, with Mohamed AlSayed providing a crucial assist to Farhutdinov, who equalised in the 21st minute with a composed finish inside the box. The momentum shifted in RIT Dubai's favour, as they continued to press for a second goal. Farhutdinov was again in the thick of the action, attempting to find the net in the 27th and 30th minutes, the latter effort striking the crossbar.
As the first half drew to a close, RIT Dubai made several substitutions, bringing on Masoud Barahoey, Hussam Alazzah, and Nariman Samani, replacing Razvin, Bukdida, and AlSayed respectively. The half-time whistle blew with the score level at 1-1, setting the stage for an exciting second half.
The second half commenced with RIT Dubai making further changes, including the introduction of goalkeeper Yesa Aamir. The fresh legs injected energy into the team, and Hazza Yateem made an immediate impact with an attempt just after the break. Nariman Samani then capitalised on a defensive mistake from LPFC, scoring with his right foot in the 58th minute to put RIT Dubai ahead 2-1.
RIT Dubai continued to press, with Masoud Barahoey coming close to extending the lead in the 65th minute, hitting the post. The team made another substitution, bringing on Mohsin Ayaz for Omar Remawi, as they sought to maintain their momentum. Yateem remained a constant threat, attempting to add to the scoreline in the 74th minute.
In the 76th minute, Barahoey scored RIT Dubai's third goal, assisted by Ayaz with a long pass, sealing the match at 3-1. The final stages saw further substitutions, with AlSayed returning to the pitch and Razvin coming back on as RIT Dubai managed the game effectively.
As the match drew to a close, Mohamed AlSayed had a final attempt in the 89th minute, but the score remained unchanged. RIT Dubai's performance was marked by strong individual displays, particularly from Farhutdinov and Barahoey, while the defensive unit held firm against LPFC's attacks. The victory showcased RIT Dubai's potential as they continue to build towards their competitive fixtures ahead.
