Key Highlights
- The match between Al Nassr and Al Ittihad was part of the octavos de final (16th round) of the King Cup in Saudi Arabia.
- Karim Benzema scored two goals for Al Ittihad, while Angelo also netted a goal for Al Nassr.
- Al Nassr’s Bento led his team with a defensive lineup that included Iñigo Martínez and Khaibari.
- Cristiano Ronaldo captained the match, leading Al Nassr in their pursuit of the King Cup title.
Match Overview: Al Nassr vs. Al Ittihad – King Cup 16th Round
The King Cup, one of Saudi Arabia’s most prestigious football competitions, saw a high-stakes match between Al Nassr FC and Al-Ittihad FC. The event took place at the King Saud University Stadium in Riyadh on 26 October 2025, with over 26,100 spectators in attendance. This fixture was crucial for both teams as it marked their confrontation in the 16th round of the tournament.
Lineups and Key Players
Al Nassr FC, coached by Bento, fielded a lineup that included experienced defenders like Iñigo Martínez. The midfield was anchored by Khaibari and Angelo, who were instrumental in the team’s offensive efforts. Forward Joao Félix and Cristiano Ronaldo led the attack, with Ronaldo serving as team captain.
Al-Ittihad FC, under the tactical guidance of Rajkovic, lined up with a balanced defense featuring Al Julaydan and Saad.
Their midfield was composed of Fabinho, Kante, and Aouar, who orchestrated the team’s possession game. The front line was spearheaded by Benzema, Diaby, and Roger.
Match Highlights
The match kicked off with Al Nassr attempting to maintain their undefeated record in the King Cup. In the 15th minute, Benzema secured a crucial goal for Al-Ittihad, putting his team ahead early. Al Nassr responded fiercely, with Angelo’s equalizer coming just four minutes later.
The first half saw intense action, highlighted by several near-misses and critical moments.
In the 18th minute, Diaby nearly doubled Al-Ittihad’s lead but was foiled by a spectacular save from Bento. Notably, in the 29th minute, Angelo’s powerful shot found the corner of the net, giving Al Nassr an important equalizer.
The second half continued to offer drama, with both teams pushing for victory. Benzema’s goal in the 16th minute was a moment of personal vindication for him after their recent defeat at home against Al Nassr. The match concluded with a 1-1 draw, setting up an exciting potential rematch.
Referee and Stadium Details
The match was officiated by Khalid Al Turais, who managed to control the high-tempo game effectively despite several contentious moments. The King Saud University Stadium, known for its modern facilities, provided a perfect backdrop for the clash between two of Saudi Arabia’s top teams.
As the match concluded with a 1-1 draw, both Al Nassr and Al Ittihad will now look to prepare for their next encounters in the King Cup. The rivalry between these clubs has become increasingly fierce, with each game carrying significant implications for their respective futures in Saudi football.
