KSAsportz report
NAJRAN — In a commanding start to their title defense, Al Ittihad secured a decisive 5-2 victory against Al Okhdood in the Roshn Saudi League on Saturday. The match featured a stunning hat-trick from star striker Karim Benzema, marking a perfect opening for the defending champions.
Held at the bustling Prince Hathloul Sports City, Al Ittihad raced to an impressive two-goal lead within the first seven minutes. Benzema initiated the scoring with a classic header, followed swiftly by Steven Bergwijn, who doubled the lead.
In an attempt to respond, Al Okhdood’s Colombian midfielder Juan Sebastián Pedroza narrowed the gap just before the half-hour mark. However, any momentum gained was quickly halted when Saeed Al Rubaie inadvertently redirected a free-kick from Bergwijn into his own net.
Following the intermission, Benzema struck again in the 48th minute, capitalizing on a precise pass from Fabinho. Pedroza, however, demonstrated resilience by answering back for Al Okhdood. Yet, on the hour mark, Benzema completed his hat-trick with an elegant cushioned volley at the back post, solidifying his team’s dominance.
The night took a turn for the worse for Al Okhdood when Naif Asiri received a second yellow card, reducing his side to ten men late in the game.
By that time, Benzema had already claimed the match ball and was awarded Man of the Match, signaling his ambition for another golden boot run after finishing third in last season’s league scoring chart, where he netted 15 goals.
Statistics reveal that Al Ittihad recorded a staggering 65% possession, emphasizing their control throughout the match. With this victory, Al Ittihad positions itself as a formidable contender for the upcoming season.