Almarzooqi came on in the 84th minute and three minutes later, the defender – played on by Cecilia Nyama’s instinctive pass – beat her marker before nutmegging Myawady keeper Ei Sandar Zaw.
The result left Abu Dhabi Country Club with two wins, bringing them one step closer to reaching the group stage of the competition ahead of their final fixture against Saudi Arabia’s Al Nassr, who defeated Young Elephants of Laos 3-0.
Hassanien replaced Rekha Poudel with Almarzooqi, who scored Abu Dhabi Country Club’s third goal of their campaign.
“We knew this match was crucial, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to contribute,” said Almarzooqi. “We respect all the teams, and we prepared hard for this match. Now, we are ready for the third match.”
Hassanien is already looking ahead and wants her players to recover ahead of their final Group A fixture against Al Nassr.
“I thank all the players for their efforts,” said Hassanien. “This win was the result of their hard work and determination. We have six points now and we will start preparing for the next match in a different way, focusing on both mental readiness and high spirits.”
Myawady head coach Ayar Maung cut a disappointed figure after his team’s hopes were dashed by two consecutive defeats.
“We came here with the aim of winning the match, but unfortunately, it didn’t happen for us,” said Maung. “We were just a little bit unlucky, but congratulations to Abu Dhabi Country Club.”
