Al-Ittihad’s struggles in the Saudi Pro League continue as they suffered a 2-0 away defeat against Al-Fateh, increasing the pressure from Al-Hilal, who are now just four points behind. Despite the loss, Al-Ittihad remains at the top of the table, but the title race has intensified as the league enters its final stages. Al-Fateh, meanwhile, moved up from 14th to 13th place.

The match started with a shock for Al-Ittihad in the early minutes. In the 10th minute, Moroccan striker Mourad Batna of Al-Fateh made a explosive run from the right and passed to Amin Sabahi, who scored with a powerful shot.

Later, in the 35th minute, Batna won a penalty but saw his goal disallowed after VAR review due to a double touch violation.

In the 44th minute, Al-Ittihad earned a penalty, but Fabinho failed to convert, as Al-Fateh goalkeeper Nawaf Al-Aqidi made a brilliant save.

In the second half, Al-Ittihad thought they had scored in the 61st minute when Karim Benzema finished off a pass from Hussam Al-Awrad, but VAR ruled it out for offside.

In the 78th minute, Al-Aqidi, who had earlier saved a penalty, turned provider with a long ball to Matías Vargas, who scored in a one-on-one situation. Initially ruled offside, VAR confirmed the goal was valid, sealing Al-Fateh’s 2-0 victory.

Al-Ittihad’s late efforts to salvage the match were in vain, and Al-Fateh secured a crucial victory. With the gap between Al-Ittihad and Al-Hilal now reduced to four points, the Saudi Pro League title race promises an exciting finale.