Al-Ittihad FC vs Al Taawon Match Recap - Jan 3, 2026

Al-Ittihad FC's Tactical Masterclass Secures Narrow Victory Over Al Taawon

Al-Ittihad FC's 1-0 victory over Al Taawon showcased their tactical superiority and resilience, marking a significant moment in the Pro League season. The win not only boosts Al-Ittihad's confidence but also highlights their ability to grind out results against formidable opponents.

Al-Ittihad dominated possession with 67%, a stark contrast to Al Taawon's 33%. This control allowed them to dictate the pace of the game, effectively stifling Al Taawon's attacking threats. The home side's midfield, anchored by N'Golo Kanté and Fabinho, excelled in transitioning from defense to attack, creating numerous opportunities while limiting their opponents' chances.

The match statistics reveal a clear disparity in offensive output. Al-Ittihad registered 7 total shots compared to Al Taawon's mere 2, with 3 shots on goal to Al Taawon's none. This efficiency underscores Al-Ittihad's attacking prowess, particularly through the contributions of Karim Benzema and Steven Bergwijn, who have been pivotal in recent matches. Benzema's presence continues to be felt, as he remains a constant threat in the final third.

Defensively, Al-Ittihad displayed remarkable organization, successfully neutralizing Al Taawon's key players. Despite Al Taawon's recent form, which included a strong start to the season, they struggled to find their rhythm against a well-drilled Al-Ittihad side. The visitors managed only 1 corner kick and failed to capitalize on any set pieces, indicating their inability to penetrate the home side's defense.

Al Taawon's recent form had been impressive, sitting third in the league with 28 points prior to this match. However, their performance against Al-Ittihad exposed vulnerabilities that had been masked by earlier successes. The absence of effective link-up play between Roger Martínez and his teammates was evident, as they failed to create meaningful chances throughout the match.

The goal from Muhannad Shanqeeti in the 50th minute proved decisive. It was a product of sustained pressure from Al-Ittihad, who had been knocking on the door throughout the first half. Shanqeeti's ability to find space and convert when it mattered most reflects the growing confidence within the squad, especially after their recent victories.

Al-Ittihad's last five matches have seen them secure four wins, including a commanding performance against Al Shabab where they dominated possession and shot counts. This consistency is crucial as they aim to climb further up the league standings. Their tactical approach under coach Sergio Conceicao has been effective, emphasizing ball control and pressing high up the pitch.

Conversely, Al Taawon's recent performances have shown signs of fatigue despite their strong start to the season. After five consecutive wins, this defeat may serve as a wake-up call for coach Pericles Chamusca and his squad. The lack of creativity in midfield was apparent, and adjustments will be necessary if they hope to maintain their position near the top of the table.

The implications of this match extend beyond just three points. For Al-Ittihad, it solidifies their place in the top half of the table and builds momentum heading into their next fixture against Al Kholood. For Al Taawon, it raises questions about their ability to compete against top-tier teams consistently.

Looking ahead, both teams face critical matches that will shape their seasons. Al-Ittihad will seek to build on this victory and continue their ascent, while Al Taawon must regroup and address the issues that surfaced in this match. The Pro League remains competitive, and every point is vital as teams jockey for position.

In summary, Al-Ittihad FC's tactical discipline and effective execution secured a vital win against Al Taawon. The match highlighted both teams' current trajectories: one on an upward swing, while the other must recalibrate to regain its early-season form.