Awal keeps Gyan silent on Al Shabab debut

Awal Mohammed managed to tame Asamoah Gyan on his Al Shabab debut in the goalless draw with Al Ain in the Asian Champions League match played on Tuesday.

The 26-year-old built a solid defensive partnership with Amer Haroon in the heart of Al Shabab’s defence that scored full marks in keeping out the deadly attacking force of their hosts.

The visitors gave no room for Al Ain to maneuver – leaving the likes of Asamoah Gyan, Jires Keembo and Miroslav Stoch massively disappointed with the draw in their opening group game of this season’s Asian Champions League before their expectant home fans.

Awal Mohammed who joined his new side less than a fortnight ago after playing a bit part in Ghana’s silver winning feat at the 2015 AFCON, however, picked up a needless yellow card in the 72nd minute in a scuffle with an opponent.

Fellow Ghanaian John Antwi who led the attack for Al Shabab was rendered highly ineffective with the whole side’s focus solely on avoiding a concession.

Both sides thus shared the spoils at the Hazza Bin Zayed Stadium – meaning Pakhtakor will be leading Group B after the first round of matches following their 2-1 win over Naft Tehran earlier in the day.