In one of the most anticipated clashes of the 2025/26 Saudi King’s Cup, Al-Ittihad pulled off a stunning 2-1 victory over Al-Nasr at the Mirsul Park Stadium in Riyadh. The game had everything—intensity, goals, drama, and a red card—but in the end, it was Karim Benzema’s class and leadership that guided the visitors to a memorable triumph. The Jeddah-based club entered the match knowing they would face a formidable opponent led by Cristiano Ronaldo, but Al-Ittihad’s tactical discipline and fighting spirit made all the difference. Benzema, who continues to shine in Saudi football, opened the scoring early in the game, showing once again why he remains one of the most clinical forwards in the world.
In the 15th minute, the former Real Madrid legend pounced on a defensive lapse to slot home the opening goal, giving Al-Ittihad the perfect start. The strike silenced the Riyadh crowd and gave the visitors confidence to control the tempo. However, Al-Nasr quickly regrouped, and their attacking persistence paid off fifteen minutes later when Gabriel Angelo equalized in the 30th minute, restoring hope for the home fans. Despite Al-Nasr’s possession advantage, Al-Ittihad’s structure and quick counter-attacks kept the hosts on edge. Just before halftime, Houssem Aouar produced a moment of brilliance, scoring a decisive goal in the 45th minute, sending the visiting fans into a frenzy and giving Al-Ittihad a 2-1 lead going into the break.
The second half began with Al-Nasr eager to turn the tide, but the match took an unexpected twist when Ahmed Al-Julaidan, Al-Ittihad’s young defender, was sent off in the 49th minute after a late challenge on Sadio Mané. The red card left the visitors with ten men for more than forty minutes, transforming the match into a test of endurance and defensive discipline. Playing a man down against Al-Nasr—an attacking powerhouse featuring Ronaldo, Anderson Talisca, and Otávio—would have broken most teams. But Al-Ittihad showed remarkable composure. Coach Marcelo Gallardo reorganized his formation, moving Benzema deeper to help link play while instructing his midfield to compact the lines and deny space.
The Riyadh side pushed relentlessly, bombarding the Al-Ittihad penalty area with crosses and long-range efforts. Ronaldo, clearly determined to inspire a comeback, came close to equalizing twice: first with a curling free kick narrowly off target, and later with a header that forced a stunning save from goalkeeper Marcelo Grohe. As the clock ticked, Al-Nasr’s frustration grew. Their attacks became predictable, while Al-Ittihad’s defense—anchored by Fabinho and N’Golo Kanté—held firm. Every clearance and interception was met with roars of approval from the Al-Ittihad bench. In the dying minutes, the visitors even threatened to extend their lead through Benzema, whose shot from distance missed by inches.
When the referee blew the final whistle, the Al-Ittihad players collapsed to the ground in relief and joy. They had not only eliminated one of the tournament favorites but had done so under immense pressure and with a numerical disadvantage for nearly an entire half.This match once again highlighted the influence of Karim Benzema, whose experience and leadership continue to elevate Al-Ittihad. Since his arrival in Saudi Arabia, the French striker has embraced his role as captain, setting the tone both on and off the field.
His goal against Al-Nasr was not only decisive but emblematic of his ability to seize key moments in big games. Benzema’s performance went beyond scoring—he constantly dropped deep to assist in buildup play, shielded the ball under pressure, and motivated his teammates throughout the match. His calm demeanor after Al-Julaidan’s red card was crucial in keeping the team focused.
The rivalry between Al-Nasr and Al-Ittihad has always been one of Saudi football’s most intense, and this King’s Cup battle added another unforgettable chapter to their story. The victory not only propels Al-Ittihad into the quarterfinals but also sends a message to the rest of the competition—they are back among the favorites for the title. The win also reaffirms Benzema’s impact on Saudi football. His ability to lead by example, even under pressure, embodies the professionalism that has defined his career. As for Al-Ittihad, this result strengthens team morale and reinforces their status as one of the strongest sides in the Middle East.
The match will be remembered not only for the scoreline but also for the way Al-Ittihad fought with heart, determination, and tactical intelligence. Their resilience, especially after going down to ten men, exemplifies the spirit of champions. As Al-Nasr regroups and Al-Ittihad advances, fans can look forward to more thrilling encounters between these two giants. For now, though, the night belongs to Karim Benzema, whose goal and leadership turned a difficult match into a statement victory—and reminded the football world that even in a new league, his winning instinct remains as sharp as ever.
