Al Taawon and NEOM Share the Spoils in a Tense Stalemate

Al Taawon's unbeaten run in the Pro League continues, but a late equalizer from NEOM leaves both teams with mixed feelings after a 1-1 draw. Al Taawon remains in second place with 21 points, while NEOM sits seventh with 13 points, reflecting their contrasting seasons thus far.

Al Taawon dominated possession with 54%, showcasing their ability to control the game despite the final score. This aligns with their recent form, where they averaged over 51% possession in their last five matches. The midfield trio of Fulgini, El Mahdioui, and Flávio orchestrated play effectively, allowing Al Taawon to dictate the tempo. Their passing accuracy of 88% further emphasizes their control, a stark contrast to NEOM's struggles in this area.

NEOM's defensive frailties were evident throughout the match, as they conceded three corner kicks without managing any of their own. This lack of offensive threat mirrors their recent performances, where they have often struggled to create clear chances. Despite a commendable showing from Benrahma, who converted a penalty in stoppage time, NEOM's overall attacking output was lacking. They managed only four shots on goal, matching Al Taawon but failing to capitalize on their opportunities.

Al Ahmad emerged as a key figure for Al Taawon, scoring the late equalizer that salvaged a point for his team. His performance is a continuation of his recent form, having scored in previous matches and proving to be a reliable source of goals. This late-game resilience reflects Al Taawon's character this season, as they have often found ways to secure points even when not at their best.

NEOM's inconsistency has been a recurring theme this season. After a promising win against Al Kholood, they faltered against stronger opponents like Al-Nassr and Al-Qadisiyah FC. The draw against Al Taawon highlights their ongoing struggle to find stability. Despite Benrahma's individual brilliance, the team has often relied too heavily on moments of magic rather than cohesive team play.

Statistically, NEOM's passing accuracy of 87% is commendable but insufficient against a team like Al Taawon that thrives on precision. Their midfield, featuring Doucouré and Koné, failed to connect effectively with the forwards, leading to a lack of creativity in the final third. This disconnect has been evident in their last five matches, where they have often been outplayed in midfield battles.

The tactical battle between coaches Chamusca and Galtier played a significant role in shaping the match. Chamusca's decision to employ a 4-3-3 formation allowed Al Taawon to exploit the flanks effectively, while Galtier's 4-4-2 setup struggled to provide adequate support for their forwards. The lack of width from NEOM limited their attacking options and made it easier for Al Taawon to defend.

Looking ahead, Al Taawon will face a challenging encounter against Al-Hilal Saudi FC, where maintaining their unbeaten streak will be crucial. Their current form suggests they can compete at the highest level, but consistency will be key. NEOM, on the other hand, must regroup before their match against Al-Fayha. They need to address their defensive issues and find a way to create more scoring opportunities if they hope to climb the standings.

The draw serves as a reminder that while Al Taawon remains a formidable force in the league, NEOM still possesses the potential to challenge stronger teams when they find their rhythm. Both teams have much to reflect on as they prepare for their upcoming fixtures, with the hope that today's match will serve as a turning point for NEOM and a stepping stone for Al Taawon in their title aspirations.