Saudi Gazette report

RIYADH — Al Nassr dashed Al Ahli's hopes of a victory at Al Awal Park in Riyadh with a last-minute equalizer in their Saudi Pro League clash on Friday. The match, which was a part of the third round of the league, ended in a 1-1 draw.

In the dying moments of the game, Sultan Al Ghannam rescued Al Nassr and coach Luis Castro from their first league defeat of the season.

Al Ghannam's equalizing goal came from a cross-shot that deflected off substitute Bassam Al Hariji, catching goalkeeper Mendy off guard as the ball slowly rolled into the net. This goal came just as Al Ahli seemed poised for a win, thanks to a goal from Ivorian midfielder Franck Kessié.

The match was attended by 23,000 spectators and was marked by a cautious approach from both teams, particularly from the home side, Al Nassr. Despite the high stakes, neither team displayed strong attacking performances, with both defenses holding firm.

Al Nassr started the game with new signing, French defender Mohamed Simakan, alongside Salem Al Najdi. The team's lineup featured Brazilian goalkeeper Pinto, with a defensive line comprising Sultan Al Ghannam, Laporte, Simakan, and Al Najdi. In midfield, Abdullah Al Khaibari, Marcelo Brozović, Otávio, Sadio Mané, and Talisca were present, while Cristiano Ronaldo was the lone forward.

Al Ahli, managed by German Matthias Jaissle, placed their trust in new recruit Ivan Toney. The team’s lineup included Senegalese goalkeeper Mendy, with Ali Majrashi, Ibanez, Demiral, and Abdullah Al Ammar in defense. In midfield, Frank Kessié, Ziyad Al Jehani, Riyad Mahrez, Firmino, and Feras Al Brikan played, with Ivan Toney leading the attack.

Al Ahli was impressive in the first half, initiating most of the offensive play as they sought to break through Al Nassr's defense. Despite Cristiano Ronaldo's efforts, Al Nassr struggled to mount a significant offensive challenge, with only occasional support from Sadio Mané and Otávio.

The game’s breakthrough came in the 57th minute when Kessié received a pass near the edge of the penalty area and fired a powerful shot into the net, giving Al Ahli the lead.

In a bid to equalize, Al Nassr’s coach, Luis Castro, made several attacking substitutions. The home team’s persistence paid off in stoppage time, as Sultan Al Ghannam's effort finally found the back of the net, securing a dramatic draw for Al Nassr.