In a thrilling encounter during the 26th round of the Saudi Pro League, Al-Ittihad managed to secure a dramatic draw against Al-Ahli, thanks to a last-minute equalizer from none other than Karim Benzema. The match, which took place on April 5, 2025, saw both teams showcasing their talents, but it was Benzema's late heroics that stole the show.
The action kicked off with Al-Ahli taking the lead on the 52nd minute. Defender Roger Ibanez opened the scoring, capitalizing on a precise assist from Riyad Marez, sending the home crowd into a frenzy. Al-Ahli, who came into the match sitting in 5th place with 48 points, looked to build on their recent form, having won three out of their last five matches.
However, Al-Ittihad, the league leaders with 61 points, were not to be outdone. They equalized in the 75th minute through Mussa Diaby, who found the net with a well-placed shot. Just seven minutes later, Al-Ahli regained their lead when Ayman Toni struck, putting the hosts ahead once again.
With time running out and the score at 2-1 in favor of Al-Ahli, the tension mounted. But in the dying moments of the match, Karim Benzema, the Golden Ball winner, showcased why he is one of the best in the game. In the 5th minute of added time, Benzema scored a stunning goal, ensuring that Al-Ittihad walked away with a point, making the final score 2-2.
This result keeps Al-Ittihad at the top of the Pro League standings, while Al-Ahli remains in 5th place. The match was not just a testament to the skill of the players but also highlighted the competitive spirit of the Saudi Pro League.
As the dust settles on this exciting match, fans and analysts alike are left buzzing about the implications of this draw. Al-Ittihad continues to lead the league, but the pressure is mounting as teams like Al-Ahli look to close the gap. With both teams showing such form, the remainder of the season promises to be an exhilarating ride.
Looking ahead, the upcoming fixtures will be crucial for both teams. Al-Ahli will need to maintain their momentum if they hope to climb the table, while Al-Ittihad will aim to solidify their position at the top. The thrilling nature of this match serves as a reminder of why fans are drawn to the beautiful game.
