Damac vs Al-Ittihad FC Match Recap - Jan 13, 2026

Damac Stuns Al-Ittihad in a Battle of Survival and Ambition

Damac's gritty 1-1 draw against Al-Ittihad FC marks a significant moment in their fight for survival, showcasing resilience against a team that has been riding high in the league. With this result, Damac remains in 14th place, but the performance hints at a potential turning point after a string of disheartening results.

Damac's recent form has been dismal, with only one win in their last five matches. The team entered this fixture after a humiliating 0-4 defeat to Al Khaleej Saihat, where they were outclassed in every statistical category. Yet, today, they managed to secure a point against a formidable opponent, demonstrating that they can still compete when it matters most. Abdullah Al-Qahtani's goal in the 37th minute was a testament to Damac's determination, providing a much-needed boost to their morale.

Al-Ittihad FC, on the other hand, has been riding a wave of confidence, sitting comfortably in 6th place with 26 points. Their recent performances have been characterized by dominance, including a resounding 4-0 victory over Al Kholood just days prior. However, today's match exposed some vulnerabilities in their game. Despite controlling possession with 65% and completing 158 passes compared to Damac's 87, they struggled to convert that dominance into clear scoring opportunities.

The midfield battle was pivotal, with Al-Ittihad's N'Golo Kanté and Fabinho expected to dictate play. Yet, they found it challenging to break down a resolute Damac defense that had been under scrutiny for its fragility. The defensive unit held firm, limiting Al-Ittihad to just one shot on target throughout the match. This performance could signal a shift in Damac's defensive approach, which has been criticized for conceding too many goals in recent weeks.

Al-Ittihad's attacking prowess has largely revolved around Karim Benzema, who has been instrumental in their recent successes. However, today he was unable to find the net, reflecting a broader issue for Al-Ittihad: despite their attacking talent, they often rely heavily on individual brilliance rather than cohesive team play. The absence of a second goal after Muhannad Shanqiti equalized just before halftime left them vulnerable to Damac's counterattacks.

The statistics reveal that both teams had an equal number of shots on goal-one each-highlighting the lack of clinical finishing from Al-Ittihad. Their inability to capitalize on possession and create meaningful chances raises questions about their attacking strategy moving forward. The reliance on Benzema as the primary goal scorer may need reevaluation if they are to maintain their position in the league.

Damac's performance today could be seen as a turning point. After weeks of disappointing results, they displayed grit and determination that had been missing in previous outings. The draw against Al-Ittihad not only provides them with a crucial point but also instills confidence as they prepare for their next match against Al-Fayha. If they can build on this momentum, there is hope for a resurgence in their season.

The red card issued to an Al-Ittihad player in stoppage time adds another layer of complexity to their situation. Playing with ten men at the end of the match could have long-term implications for their squad depth and tactical flexibility in upcoming fixtures. This incident underscores the need for discipline as they navigate the remainder of the season.

Damac's next challenge will be crucial as they face Al-Fayha, who will be looking to capitalize on any lingering weaknesses from today's match. Meanwhile, Al-Ittihad must regroup quickly ahead of their encounter with Al-Ettifaq. The pressure is on both teams: Damac to escape relegation and Al-Ittihad to solidify their standing among the league's elite.

In summary, today's match serves as a reminder that football is unpredictable. Damac's draw against Al-Ittihad not only reflects their fighting spirit but also highlights the challenges facing a team that has struggled for consistency. As the season progresses, both teams will need to adapt and evolve if they hope to achieve their respective goals.