Al-Ettifaq
Al-Ittihad FC produced a devastating second-half display to thrash Al-Ettifaq 4-1 in the Saudi Pro League Round 10 at Prince Mohammed bin Fahd Stadium. This emphatic victory cemented Al-Ittihad’s title credentials while leaving Al-Ettifaq reeling from their heaviest defeat of the season.
Al-Ittihad FC Strike First Through Ilenikhena
The visitors seized control early. After dominating possession in the opening exchanges, George Ilenikhena broke the deadlock in the 16th minute, sweeping home Richard Ríos Montoya’s pinpoint cross. It was the Nigerian’s second goal of the campaign, capping off a slick passing move.
Al-Ettifaq Fight Back Before Half-Time
Against the run of play, Al-Ettifaq drew level in the 34th minute through Sultan Ali Huran. The striker latched onto Radhi Al Oteibi’s through ball and slotted past Predrag Rajković to send the home fans into raptures. However, the first half ended on a sour note as both sides were shown yellow cards in stoppage time after a heated exchange.
Al-Ittihad FC Take Control After the Break
Al-Ittihad emerged from the interval with renewed purpose. Houssem Aouar restored their lead in the 53rd minute, curling a sublime finish into the top corner after being teed up by Ilenikhena. Then, the floodgates opened. Youssef En-Nesyri came off the bench to bag a quickfire double – first tapping home Muhannad Al-Shanqeeti’s low cross in the 80th minute, before rounding off the scoring five minutes later after latching onto Ahmed Al-Ghamdi’s defense-splitting pass.
What This Result Means
This comprehensive victory propels Al-Ittihad up the Pro League table, showcasing their credentials as genuine title contenders. For Al-Ettifaq, it’s a sobering reality check after a promising start to the season. With just 43% possession and only 4 shots on target, Arthur Papas’ men were thoroughly outclassed. Both teams now turn their attention to the next round of fixtures, with Al-Ettifaq desperate to bounce back and Al-Ittihad looking to maintain their momentum in what’s shaping up to be a thrilling title race.
Key Moments
16′ ⚽ Al-Ittihad FC — George Ilenikhena (assist: Richard Ríos Montoya)
53′ ⚽ Al-Ittihad FC — Houssem Aouar (assist: George Ilenikhena)
80′ ⚽ Al-Ittihad FC — Youssef En-Nesyri (assist: Muhannad Al-Shanqeeti)
85′ ⚽ Al-Ittihad FC — Youssef En-Nesyri (assist: Ahmed Al-Ghamdi)
