Al-Ahli secured a 2-1 victory over Al-Ettifaq in the Saudi Pro League on Monday, with Roberto Firmino contributing to the scoreline. This win allowed Al-Ahli to match Al-Nassr's points, placing them fourth in the league. Previously, their five-game winning streak had been interrupted. Riyad Mahrez assisted Gabri Veiga, who scored from 15 yards out after half an hour of play.Mahrez was active throughout the match and nearly doubled the lead before halftime. However, his attempt missed the far corner after Marek Rodak's error. Firmino extended Al-Ahli's lead by volleying Saad Yaslam's cross into the net at the back post in the 63rd minute at Abdullah Al Dabil Stadium. Despite Georginio Wijnaldum scoring for Al-Ettifaq in the 91st minute, it was merely a consolation goal.

Al-Ettifaq marked their 400th Saudi Pro League game and their 200th at home but failed to impress until Wijnaldum's late goal. The team has now won only two of their last 12 matches against Jeddah-based teams in the league. They remain winless in six consecutive home games against such opponents, keeping them in 11th place.

Al-Ahli's Away Game Challenges

For Al-Ahli, this victory was significant as they had not won any of their previous three away matches played on a Monday in this competition. The contributions from Veiga and Firmino were crucial in breaking this pattern and securing much-needed points for their team.The match highlighted both teams' current form and challenges. While Al-Ahli celebrated a return to winning ways, Al-Ettifaq continued to struggle against strong opposition from Jeddah-based teams.