Steven Bergwijn's Brace Propels Al-Ittihad To 4-3 Victory Over Al-Kholood In Saudi Pro League

Add as a preferred source on Google

Al-Ittihad climbed to the top of the Saudi Pro League alongside Al-Hilal after a thrilling 4-3 victory over Al-Kholood in Jeddah. Steven Bergwijn's two goals were crucial in their comeback. Laurent Blanc's team started the match three points behind after Al-Hilal's 4-0 win against Al-Akhdoud on Friday. Al-Ittihad aimed to bounce back from a recent 2-1 loss to Damac.

Al-Kholood took an early lead with goals from William Troost-Ekong and Myziane Maolida, putting them 2-0 up within 23 minutes. However, Abdulrahman Al Obud reduced the deficit by skillfully navigating through the defence and lobbing Marcelo Grohe. Bergwijn then equalised with a penalty nine minutes into first-half stoppage time.

N'Golo Kante set up Hassan Kadish, allowing Al-Ittihad to take the lead for the first time just two minutes into the second half. Bergwijn capitalised on Karim Benzema's impressive footwork, tapping in after Grohe's save, extending their advantage. Despite Maolida scoring again for Al-Kholood, Al-Ittihad held on through eight minutes of stoppage time to secure the win.

Earlier on Saturday, Al Fateh and Al-Qadisiyah ended their match in a 1-1 draw at Prince Abdullah bin Jalawi Stadium. The visitors missed an opportunity to surpass Al-Nassr and move into third place. Julian Quinones scored for Al-Qadisiyah within two minutes, but Matheus Machado equalised shortly after coming on as a substitute at half-time.

Despite their draw, Al-Qadisiyah remains fourth due to goal difference, trailing behind Al-Nassr. Cristiano Ronaldo contributed to Al-Nassr's victory over Al-Raed on Thursday. This result kept them ahead of their rivals in the standings.

The intense competition at the top of the league continues as teams strive for dominance. With both Al-Ittihad and Al-Hilal level on points, every match becomes crucial in determining who will ultimately claim the top spot this season.