En-Nesyri Denied as Al-Ittihad Held 1-1 by Al Kholood

Al-Ittihad FC’s Pro League title ambitions were dented immediately as they squandered a lead to draw 1-1 with Al Kholood in a chaotic opening night fixture at King Abdullah Sports City – reduced to ten men after Danilo Pereira’s second-half dismissal.

Al-Ittihad’s Penalty Agony Sets the Tone

The home crowd’s early optimism turned to groans when Houssem Aouar blazed a 32nd-minute penalty over the bar after Al Kholood’s Coba da Costa was booked for hauling down Moussa Diaby. Jens Wissing’s men dominated possession (49%) but lacked cutting edge until Ahmed Al-Julaydan’s inch-perfect through ball found Youssef En-Nesyri, who rifled home two minutes before halftime.

Al Kholood’s Resilient Response

Des Buckingham’s visitors emerged transformed after the break. Julien Domingues capitalized on hesitant defending to slot past Predrag Rajković in the 52nd minute, assisted by Shaquille Pinas. The momentum swung violently when Pereira saw red six minutes later for a reckless lunge – Al-Ittihad’s xG of 2.30 suddenly looking fragile against Al Kholood’s 2.19.

Pro League’s Opening Night Drama

Wissing’s triple substitution on 62 minutes failed to spark a winner, with replacement midfielder Mohammed Al-Shanqiti booked almost immediately. Al Kholood goalkeeper Hamed Al-Shanqity produced a crucial late save to deny En-Nesyri a brace, leaving both sides to rue missed chances in a match where the woodwork went untested but tempers flared throughout.

For Al-Ittihad, this two-point dropped against newly-promoted opposition raises early questions about their title credentials. Al Kholood’s jubilant celebrations at full-time told their own story – a statement result for Buckingham’s men in their first top-flight campaign.