Saudi League Kicks Off with Exciting Matches

Al Taawoun 1-0 Al Fayha

In a dramatic opening to the 2024-25 Roshn Saudi League, Al Taawoun secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Al Fayha in Buraidah. The match was decided by a late header from Abdulfattah Adam, who capitalized on a perfect delivery from Faycal Fajr during his debut for Al Taawoun. Fajr, who was brought on as a substitute after the hosts were reduced to 10 men following Ibrahim Al Shuail’s red card, made an immediate impact with his precise set-piece in stoppage time. Al Fayha had a chance to take the lead early on, but Fashion Sakala’s effort was well saved by Al Taawoun’s goalkeeper, Mailson. The victory gives Rodolfo Arruabarrena’s men a strong start to the season, while Al Fayha looks to bounce back in their next match against Al Nassr.

Al Nassr 1-1 Al Raed

Cristiano Ronaldo’s powerful header wasn’t enough to secure all three points for Al Nassr as they were held to a 1-1 draw by Al Raed in their season opener. Ronaldo opened the scoring in the 34th minute, marking his 50th Roshn Saudi League goal, with a header assisted by Sadio Mane. However, Al Raed responded shortly after the break when Abdullah Al Khaibari lost possession, leading to a penalty that was calmly converted by Al Raed captain Mohammed Fouzair. Despite Ronaldo’s efforts to find a late winner, he was flagged offside, and the match ended in a draw. The result was a significant achievement for Al Raed’s new manager, Odair Hellmann, as he managed to secure a point in his first competitive match.

Al Wehda 3-3 Al Riyadh

In an action-packed encounter at King Abdulaziz Sports City, Al Wehda and Al Riyadh played out a thrilling 3-3 draw. The first half saw Craig Goodwin give Al Wehda the lead, finishing off a well-worked move. The second half erupted with goals and drama, as Bernard Mensah equalized for Al Riyadh shortly after coming on as a substitute. Al Riyadh then faced a setback when Hussain Al Nowaiqi was sent off, allowing Goodwin to score again for Al Wehda. However, Al Riyadh fought back with Ibrahim Bayesh volleying home an equalizer. In a tense finale, Murad Khadhari seemed to have won it for Al Wehda, but Lucas Kal’s stunning long-range strike in added time ensured that Al Riyadh left with a hard-earned point.