NEOM vs Al-Ittihad FC Match Recap - Dec 31, 2025

Al-Ittihad FC Overcomes NEOM in a 3-1 Victory, Cementing Their Place in the Pro League

Al-Ittihad FC's decisive 3-1 victory over NEOM not only secures three crucial points but also highlights their resurgence in form as they continue to build momentum in the Pro League. This win marks Al-Ittihad's third consecutive victory, showcasing their ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities and maintain control throughout the match.

Roger opened the scoring early, setting the tone for Al-Ittihad's offensive strategy. His goal in the 14th minute was a testament to his growing influence in the midfield, where he has been pivotal in linking play and creating chances. Following a strong performance against Al Shabab just days prior, where he contributed significantly to their attacking efforts, Roger's consistency is becoming a defining feature of Al-Ittihad's recent success.

NEOM's response came through Saïd Benrahma, who equalized in the 27th minute. His ability to find space and convert chances has been a bright spot for NEOM, especially after his standout performance against Al Najma just days earlier. Benrahma's goal showcased his knack for timely interventions, but it ultimately proved insufficient to shift the momentum back in NEOM's favor.

Al-Ittihad regained control with a goal in the 69th minute, further asserting their dominance. The team's tactical discipline and pressing game stifled NEOM's attempts to build from the back, forcing them into errors and creating opportunities for counterattacks. This strategic approach has been a hallmark of Al-Ittihad's recent matches, allowing them to dictate the pace and flow of the game effectively.

The final nail in NEOM's coffin came in stoppage time, as Al-Ittihad sealed their victory with another goal. This late strike not only emphasized their attacking prowess but also highlighted NEOM's defensive vulnerabilities, which have been exposed throughout the season. Despite moments of promise, NEOM has struggled to maintain consistency, reflected in their inability to secure points against top-tier opponents.

Recent form reveals stark contrasts between both teams. Al-Ittihad has surged forward with three wins in their last five matches, including a commanding performance against Al Shabab where they dominated possession and shot efficiency. Their passing accuracy has improved significantly, reaching 91% against Al Shabab, which has translated into effective ball control and fewer turnovers.

Conversely, NEOM's recent results have been mixed, with only two wins in their last five outings. Their inability to convert possession into goals remains a critical issue. Despite averaging over ten total shots per game, their conversion rate has lagged behind expectations, leading to frustrating draws and losses. The pressure is mounting on NEOM to find solutions as they prepare for their next match against Al-Hazm.

Karim Benzema continues to be a focal point for Al-Ittihad, contributing not only with goals but also with leadership on the pitch. His experience and tactical awareness have been invaluable as the team navigates through challenging fixtures. With multiple goals across competitions this season, Benzema's presence elevates the entire squad, instilling confidence and composure during critical moments.

NEOM must address their defensive frailties if they hope to remain competitive in the league. The partnership between Ahmed Hegazy and Khalifah Al-Dawsari has shown signs of promise but requires further cohesion to withstand pressure from high-caliber opponents like Al-Ittihad. Their upcoming fixtures will be crucial in determining whether they can stabilize their season or risk falling further behind in the standings.

The implications of this match extend beyond just points; it serves as a wake-up call for NEOM as they grapple with identity and consistency. With only 17 points from 10 matches, they find themselves at a crossroads where every game becomes increasingly vital. The challenge lies in translating potential into tangible results, particularly against teams that are currently riding high on confidence.

Al-Ittihad's victory not only solidifies their position within the league but also sends a message to their rivals: they are a force to be reckoned with as they aim for higher aspirations this season. Their blend of tactical discipline and individual brilliance positions them well for upcoming challenges, especially with key players like Benzema and Roger stepping up when it matters most.

As both teams look ahead, NEOM must regroup and refocus on their strengths while addressing weaknesses exposed during this match. Meanwhile, Al-Ittihad will seek to build on this momentum as they prepare for their next encounter against Al Taawon. The stakes are high, and both teams will need to harness their respective narratives as they navigate through the remainder of the season.