Winger Loris Vago, 18, had given the Serie A giants’ youth team the lead in the 15th minute on Tuesday. The depleted Red Knights – missing eight UAE internationals, who are at a summer camp in Spain – then rallied after the break, Dh70m)record-buy Sow and 19-goal Lima scoring tap-ins to seal the victory.

“It was a difficult match against a respected side from Asia,” coach Stefano Vecchi declared to Inter Channel.

“It was even more tricky because of the pitch, but despite the result we saw some positive things. We’ve got many new players but our spirit was right and for now that’s fine.

“We will have to work on the physical and tactical side of things ahead of next season. From today onwards, we will be focusing more on the details.”

Ahli had taken to the field with just their reserves, but coach Cosmin Olaroiu threw on their four-man foreign quota after the break. UAE Under-21 winger Walid Ambar also featured, despite his refusal to ink fresh terms.