Al-Ittihad Triumphs Over Al-Nassr 2-1 As Bergwijn Scores Last-Minute Winner In Saudi Pro League Clash

Add as a preferred source on Google

Steven Bergwijn's dramatic late goal secured a crucial win for Al-Ittihad in their pursuit of the Saudi Pro League title. They defeated Al-Nassr 2-1 at King Abdullah Sports City. Karim Benzema initially put the hosts ahead in the 55th minute, but Cristiano Ronaldo equalised shortly after. Bergwijn then delivered the decisive strike during stoppage time.

In a lacklustre first half, clear opportunities were scarce. Bergwijn and Benzema came closest for Al-Ittihad, yet neither could beat Bento. The breakthrough came early in the second half when Muhannad Al Shanqiti assisted Benzema, who scored from close range. However, Al-Nassr quickly responded with Ronaldo levelling the score after Danilo Pereira cleared Angelo's attempt off the line.

With the match seemingly heading for a draw, Bergwijn made a decisive move by cutting inside and curling a shot into the far-left corner. This victory propelled Al-Ittihad three points clear at the top of the table. Meanwhile, Al-Hilal has a chance to catch up if they win against Al-Raed on Saturday. Al-Nassr remains in fourth place.

Al-Ittihad has often struggled against Al-Nassr but managed to secure an impressive win this time, even if it wasn't entirely deserved. Their expected goals (xG) was only 0.66 from 11 shots compared to Al-Nassr's 1.2 from an equal number of attempts.

Benzema ended his goal drought against Al-Nassr, having failed to score in previous encounters with them. He finished with a team-high xG of 0.36 and had more shots (seven) and touches in the opposition box (four) than any other teammate.

Al-Ittihad has now won nine consecutive league matches, marking their second-longest winning streak in the competition after achieving ten wins between October 2021 and February 2022. They have also triumphed in their last eight home matches in the Pro League.