🎥 Melhores Momentos
In a captivating Saudi Pro League encounter on May 7, 2025, Al-Ittihad orchestrated a remarkable comeback to edge out Al-Nassr 3-2 at Al-Awwal Park in Riyadh. The victory solidified Al-Ittihad’s position atop the league standings, extending their lead to six points with only four matches remaining.(Saudi Gazette)
First Half: Al-Nassr’s Early Dominance
Al-Nassr commenced the match with vigor, taking the lead in the 3rd minute through Sadio Mané, who capitalized on a defensive lapse to score his ninth league goal of the season. The home side doubled their advantage in the 37th minute when Mané assisted Ayman Yahya, whose goal was upheld after a VAR review despite a potential handball in the buildup .(Reuters)
Second Half: Al-Ittihad’s Resurgence
Al-Ittihad emerged revitalized after halftime, with Karim Benzema narrowing the deficit to 2-1 in the 49th minute via a well-placed header. Just three minutes later, N’Golo Kanté leveled the score with a precise finish following a swift counter-attack. The momentum shifted entirely in Al-Ittihad’s favor, culminating in a stoppage-time winner by Houssem Aouar, who converted a cross from Moussa Diaby to seal the comeback .(Reuters, Saudi Gazette, Arab News)
Implications for the Title Race
This triumph propelled Al-Ittihad to 71 points, maintaining a six-point cushion over second-placed Al-Hilal. With four games remaining, Al-Ittihad is well-positioned to clinch the league title and achieve a domestic double, having already secured a spot in the King Cup final.(Reuters)
Conversely, the defeat dealt a significant blow to Al-Nassr’s aspirations. Now fourth in the standings with 60 points, their chances of qualifying for the elite tier of the AFC Champions League have diminished, especially given the limited spots available following Al-Ahli’s recent continental success .(Reuters)
Ronaldo’s Frustration Evident
Cristiano Ronaldo, despite a prolific season tallying 33 goals, displayed visible frustration during the match. Following Al-Ittihad’s equalizer, he gestured to his teammates, urging them to “wake up,” reflecting the mounting pressure and disappointment as the season nears its conclusion without silverware .(talkSPORT)
The match underscored the unpredictable nature of football, with Al-Ittihad’s resilience and tactical adjustments overturning a two-goal deficit to secure a pivotal victory in the title race.