Saudi Gazette report

BURAIDAH — Karim Benzema struck deep into stoppage time on Thursday night, securing Al Ittihad a dramatic 2-1 victory over Al Taawoun and propelling the defending champions back to the Roshn Saudi League summit.

Despite taking the lead midway through the first half, Al Ittihad were made to work hard for the win.

The in-form Abdulrahman Al Aboud capitalized on a rebound to score his fourth goal in five RSL matches, giving the visitors an early advantage.

However, Al Taawoun responded just before halftime. In the 10th minute of added time, Faycal Fajr’s corner found Musa Barrow unmarked at the far post, and the Gambian forward’s low volley deflected off Danilo Pereira, leveling the score.

Heading into Matchweek 19, Al Ittihad were behind Al Hilal only on goal difference and pushed hard in the second half to reclaim the lead.

However, a VAR intervention ruled out a goal, and the Al Taawoun woodwork denied them another, leaving the match seemingly destined for a draw.

Then, in the 95th minute, Houssem Aouar delivered a perfect slide pass to Benzema, who calmly slotted the ball past goalkeeper Abdulquddus Atiah with his left foot.

Al Ittihad captain’s 14th goal of the season moves him just one behind Cristiano Ronaldo in the league’s top scorers' race.

The goal sparked wild celebrations among Laurent Blanc’s squad, as the victory put them three points clear at the top of the table. However, Al Hilal can reclaim the summit if they secure a win against Damac on Saturday.

After the match, Aouar acknowledged the tough challenge from Al Taawoun but emphasized his team’s resilience and fighting spirit.

"We did good at the end of the game, and I hope we can do better, but we are happy guys. We're fighting until the end... the mentality is to never give up. And I think, in this team, we never give up with big players. We have big players, and they know that we can go until the end."

Al Ittihad now turn their attention to their next league fixture, aiming to maintain their title charge as the Roshn Saudi League race intensifies.