Al-Hazm vs NEOM Match Recap - Jan 4, 2026

NEOM's Late Surge Seals Victory Over Al-Hazm in a Tense Encounter

Lacazette and Rodriguez delivered a crucial win for NEOM, showcasing their attacking prowess in a match that highlighted the contrasting fortunes of both teams. Al-Hazm struggled to maintain momentum after a recent victory, while NEOM capitalized on their chances to secure three points.

NEOM's recent form has been a rollercoaster, with the team bouncing back from a disappointing loss against Al-Ittihad. The victory today marks a significant turnaround, reinforcing their position in the top half of the table. With 17 points from 11 matches, they are now firmly in the mix for playoff contention. The attacking duo of Lacazette and Rodriguez has been pivotal, with Lacazette scoring his fifth goal of the season, further solidifying his role as a key player for NEOM.

Al-Hazm entered this match with a glimmer of hope after a narrow win against Al Riyadh. However, their inability to build on that success was evident. With only 13 points from 11 matches, they remain in the lower tier of the standings. The defensive frailties that plagued them earlier in the season resurfaced, allowing NEOM to exploit gaps and create scoring opportunities.

The midfield battle was crucial, with NEOM dominating possession at 55%. This allowed them to dictate the pace of the game and create more chances. In contrast, Al-Hazm struggled to maintain control, often resorting to counter-attacks that lacked precision. Their average pass accuracy of 77% reflects ongoing issues with ball retention and build-up play.

Lacazette's performance was a highlight for NEOM. His ability to find space and convert chances has been instrumental in their recent successes. With three assists alongside his goals this season, he continues to be a focal point in their attacking strategy. Meanwhile, Rodriguez's late goal not only sealed the victory but also showcased NEOM's depth in attack, as he capitalized on a defensive lapse from Al-Hazm.

Al-Hazm's struggles were compounded by their reliance on individual brilliance rather than cohesive team play. Fábio Martins, who had been a standout performer in previous matches, was unable to influence the game significantly today. His creativity was stifled by NEOM's organized defense, which effectively neutralized his threat on the flanks.

The late penalty converted by Sayoud offered a glimmer of hope for Al-Hazm but ultimately proved too little, too late. This moment underscored their ongoing challenges in converting opportunities into tangible results. Despite showing resilience in the dying moments, they could not overcome the deficit established by NEOM's clinical finishing.

Looking ahead, NEOM will face Al-Fateh, where they will aim to build on this momentum and solidify their playoff ambitions. Conversely, Al-Hazm must regroup before their next match against Al-Hilal Saudi FC, where they will need to address their defensive vulnerabilities if they hope to climb out of the relegation zone.

This match serves as a stark reminder of the fine margins in football. For NEOM, it was a statement win that reinforces their aspirations for higher league standings. For Al-Hazm, it highlights the urgent need for improvement as they navigate a challenging season ahead.