JEDDAH — In a compelling matchup at King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah, Al Shabab clinched a significant 3-1 victory over Al Ittihad in the 29th round of the Saudi Professional League on Friday. This outcome impeded Al Ittihad's chance to climb to third place, especially after Al Ahli's stumble in the same round, leaving Al Ittihad in fifth place with 50 points. Under the guidance of coach Vitor Pereira, Al Shabab has shown remarkable technical prowess in recent games, solidifying their position far from the relegation zone with 38 points. Al Shabab opened the scoring early in the second half through Habib Diallo, who capitalized on a precise pass from Yannick Carrasco. The goal's validity was confirmed after a video assistant referee review. Shortly after taking the lead, Al Ittihad's coach, Marcelo Gallardo, introduced Abdulrazak Hamdallah, previously sidelined due to illness, into the game. Hamdallah quickly made his mark by equalizing in the 58th minute, heading in a cross from Saleh Al Amri. Despite Al Ittihad's efforts to take the lead, Al Shabab launched a swift counter-attack that led to Carlos Junior scoring the second goal. In the dying moments of the match, Musab Al Juwayr sealed the victory for Al Shabab with a third goal, ensuring a disappointing finish for Al Ittihad as they slipped to the fifth position.
