What's happened
In a thrilling match on May 7, 2025, Al-Ittihad defeated Al-Nassr 3-2, with Aouar scoring the decisive goal in added time. Sadio Mane opened the scoring, but Karim Benzema and N'Golo Kante brought Al-Ittihad back to level before Aouar's late winner. This victory strengthens Al-Ittihad's lead in the league.
What's behind the headline?
Match Highlights
- Early Dominance: Sadio Mane's quick goal set the tone for Al-Nassr, but Al-Ittihad's resilience shone through.
- Key Players: Karim Benzema and N'Golo Kante played pivotal roles in Al-Ittihad's comeback, showcasing their experience.
- Late Drama: Aouar's last-minute goal not only secured the win but also highlighted Al-Ittihad's determination to clinch the title.
Implications
- League Standings: Al-Ittihad's win extends their lead to 71 points, while Al-Nassr's loss complicates their path to the AFC Champions League.
- Future Matches: With only four games remaining, Al-Ittihad is in a strong position to secure the league title, while Al-Nassr must regroup quickly to salvage their season.
What the papers say
According to Al Jazeera, Al-Ittihad's victory was marked by a strong performance from Aouar, who scored the decisive goal in added time. The report emphasizes the significance of this win for Al-Ittihad's title aspirations. In contrast, Al-Nassr's struggles are highlighted, with their fourth-place standing now putting their Champions League hopes in jeopardy. The Japan Times notes the dramatic nature of the match, underscoring the back-and-forth scoring that kept fans on the edge of their seats. This match serves as a critical juncture in the league, with Al-Ittihad now firmly in control of their destiny.
How we got here
Al-Ittihad's victory comes as they aim for a domestic double, having reached the King Cup final. Al-Nassr, featuring Cristiano Ronaldo, is now fourth in the league, jeopardizing their chances for next season's AFC Champions League.
Go deeper
- What does this mean for Al-Nassr's season?
- Who are the key players for Al-Ittihad?
- How does this affect the league standings?
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