Al-Fateh vs Al Riyadh Match Recap - Jan 13, 2026

Al-Fateh Dominates Al Riyadh 3-1: A Tale of Resurgence and Redemption

Wesley Delgado's brace propels Al-Fateh to a commanding victory, showcasing their resurgence while Al Riyadh sinks deeper into despair.

Al-Fateh's recent form has been nothing short of impressive, and today's match against Al Riyadh solidified their upward trajectory. With this victory, Al-Fateh has now won four of their last five matches, a stark contrast to their earlier struggles this season. The team's confidence is palpable, especially with Wesley Delgado leading the charge, scoring twice and demonstrating his critical role in their attacking strategy.

Delgado's performance today was a continuation of his recent scoring spree. After netting in the previous match against Al Shabab, he has now scored three goals in just two games. His ability to find the back of the net consistently has been a game-changer for Al-Fateh, who have struggled with offensive output earlier in the season. This resurgence is not just about individual brilliance; it reflects a collective effort from the squad under coach Jose Gomes, who has instilled a sense of belief and tactical discipline.

Al-Fateh's tactical setup was evident in their ball possession, where they dominated with 57% compared to Al Riyadh's 43%. This control allowed them to dictate the pace of the game and create more opportunities. The midfield trio of Wesley Delgado, Matías Vargas, and Mourad Batna worked seamlessly together, combining creativity with tenacity. Their ability to connect passes effectively-evidenced by a pass accuracy of 77%-was crucial in breaking down Al Riyadh's defense.

In stark contrast, Al Riyadh's struggles continued as they remain entrenched at the bottom of the table. With only two wins in their last five matches, their lack of cohesion and defensive frailties were once again exposed. Despite having more shots on goal (2 to 1), they failed to convert these opportunities into meaningful threats. The team's inability to capitalize on chances has been a recurring theme this season, and today was no exception.

Tozé, who managed to score a consolation goal for Al Riyadh, has been one of the few bright spots in an otherwise dismal campaign. His goal today marked his first since December, but it did little to mask the larger issues plaguing the team. Al Riyadh's defense has been porous, conceding an average of over two goals per game in recent outings. This match only added to that tally, highlighting their ongoing struggles to maintain defensive solidity.

The statistics from this match reveal a clear narrative: Al-Fateh's resurgence is built on solid teamwork and effective execution, while Al Riyadh's plight is characterized by missed opportunities and defensive lapses. Al-Fateh's goalkeeper Fernando Pacheco made two crucial saves, further emphasizing the importance of a reliable defense in securing victories.

Al-Fateh's recent success can also be attributed to their ability to adapt tactically. They have shown resilience in matches where they have faced adversity, such as their narrow win against Al Khaleej Saihat. This adaptability has allowed them to exploit weaknesses in opponents like Al Riyadh, who have struggled to maintain composure under pressure.

Looking ahead, Al-Fateh will face Al Najma next, where they will aim to continue their winning streak and push further up the standings. Meanwhile, Al Riyadh must regroup before their clash against Al Taawon, as they desperately seek to turn their fortunes around. The pressure is mounting on coach Javier Calleja, whose tactics have yet to yield consistent results.

This match serves as a reminder of the fine margins that define success in football. For Al-Fateh, today's victory is not just about three points; it symbolizes a turning point in their season. For Al Riyadh, it underscores the urgent need for change if they are to avoid relegation and restore pride in their performances.

The contrasting fates of these two teams highlight the unpredictable nature of football. As Al-Fateh revels in their resurgence, Al Riyadh must confront the harsh reality of their current situation-a battle for survival that will require significant improvement in both performance and mentality moving forward.