Al Ittihad, the RSL runners-up, put on a show-stopping performance in their match against Al Qadsiah, delighting the 35,654 fans at King Abdullah Sports City. The game started with a bang as Al Ittihad scored an early goal just seven minutes in. Winger Moussa Diaby delivered a free-kick to club captain Karim Benzema, who confidently finished past the goalkeeper Koen Casteels.
However, Al Qadsiah didn’t stay behind for long as Mexican winger Julian Quinones made a brilliant defense-splitting pass to Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, who scored the equalizer in the 20th minute. Aubameyang struck again soon after, but the goal was disallowed as Cameron Puertas was flagged offside in the build-up.
A defensive mix-up inside the Al Qadsiah box saw Argentine midfielder Equi Fernandez unintentionally setting Benzema up for another goal, but it was ruled out for a foul on Casteels. Al Ittihad didn’t let that setback dampen their spirits as they regained the lead midway through the second half with a beautiful exchange of passes between Diaby and Houssem Aouar, resulting in Diaby calmly finishing with his left foot.
The defensive woes continued for Al Qadsiah as captain Nacho made a costly mistake, giving substitute Mario Mitaj the chance to score his first RSL goal and seal the victory for Al Ittihad. With this win, Al Ittihad stays within three points of the unbeaten league leaders Al Hilal, while Al Qadsiah slips down the table with three defeats in their last five matches, putting coach Michel under pressure.
In conclusion, Al Ittihad’s impressive performance against Al Qadsiah showcased their strength and determination on the field, securing a crucial victory in the RSL. The fans were treated to an entertaining match with goals, near misses, and individual brilliance from both teams. Al Ittihad’s attacking prowess and defensive resilience were on full display, highlighting their status as a formidable force in the league.
The standout players of the game, including Diaby, Benzema, and Aouar, demonstrated their skill and teamwork, making significant contributions to the team’s success. The victory keeps Al Ittihad in contention for the top spot in the league, while Al Qadsiah faces a challenging period with consecutive defeats impacting their position in the standings. Coach Michel will need to regroup and analyze the team’s performance to address the issues and bounce back stronger in the upcoming matches.
Overall, Al Ittihad’s win against Al Qadsiah was a statement of intent as they continue their pursuit of RSL glory. The team’s commitment, talent, and tactical awareness were evident throughout the match, showcasing their potential for success in the league. With the support of their dedicated fans and the determination of the players, Al Ittihad is poised for a successful season ahead.
