UAE Pro League: Rahimi’s hat-trick lifts Al Ain past Khor Fakkan

Soufiane Rahimi scored all three goals on Friday to move Al Ain back into top spot in the UAE Pro League with a thrilling 3-2 victory at Khor Fakkan.

نهاية المباراة المثيرة بفوز العين على مضيفه خورفكان بنتيجة 3-2 في ختام مواجهات الجولة الـ18 من دورينا 🟣✔️

شاهد الأهداف ⚽🎥#خورفكان_العين#دوري_أدنوك_للمحترفين pic.twitter.com/8IoHgKD6dA

— ADSportsTV (@ADSportsTV) February 27, 2026

The former Raja Casablanca and Morocco national team forward was in peak form, showing off his deadly instincts around the penalty area in a duel with compatriot and Khor Fakkan star Tarik Tissoudali.

Rahimi’s low shot from just outside the penalty area gave the visitors the lead in the 21st minute at the Saqr bin Mohammed Al Qasimi Stadium. After taking a slim lead into halftime, parity was restored through Tissoudali’s penalty kick just after the hour mark.

But Rahimi got on the end of Matías Palacios’ effort on goal ten minutes later, getting the slightest of touches to a bouncing shot from the Argentine to re-direct past Khor Fakkan goalkeeper Ahmed Al Hosani.

But a dramatic ending awaited for Al Ain, who looked rather underwhelming at times. Ivorian forward Adama Diallo had his opportunity from the spot in the 86th minute and kept his composure to move the hosts back level.

Rahimi strikes one more time for Al Ain

In the end it was Rahimi’s efficient finishing that carried the title contenders through. Finding space on the left wing in stoppage time, the Moroccan put in an inswinging cross towards goal. Kodjo Laba attempted to get a touch but despite failing to get anything on the ball, his presence caused Al Hosani to miss his attempt at a save and the visitors got their match winner.

Al Ain are two points clear of main title rivals Al Ahli Dubai in an ongoing tug-of-war for top spot. Al Ahli still have one game in hand.