Al-Ittihad in Jeddah marked a memorable occasion at the King Abdullah Sports City Stadium on Wednesday, as they clinched a 2-0 victory over Al-Tai. Though the result was a mere formality, the celebratory atmosphere reverberated throughout the stadium, etching lasting memories of their first title triumph since 2009.
With the hosts dominating the game, their efforts translated into only a second-half penalty and a late injury time goal. Yet, the enthusiastic home fans were undeterred, joyously hailing their heroes and cherishing the historical moment.
The victory not only marked coach Nuno Santo's first domestic championship win but also secured the 19th clean sheet of the season for goalkeeper Marcelo Grohe. Additionally, it marked Abderrazak Hamdallah's third golden boot in Saudi Arabia, as he converted the penalty with 17 minutes remaining, amidst thousands of phones capturing the milestone. Hamdallah's goal propelled his season tally to 21, while Helder Costa sealed the win with a fitting second goal, a testament to his reunion with Santo, his former coach at Wolverhampton Wanderers.
In another match, Al-Nassr's Anderson Talisca showcased his talent, stepping into the limelight as they defeated Al-Fateh 3-0. Talisca's first goal came from a precise pass by Abdulaziz Al-Aliwa, as he skillfully rounded the goalkeeper and slotted the ball home. Although his second goal was disallowed just before halftime, he found the back of the net again in the second half with a smart first-time shot. Talisca then provided an assist for Mohammed Maran, sealing a resounding victory.
Al-Hilal, finishing third, experienced a rollercoaster season, evidenced by their 3-0 lead against Al-Raed, which was subsequently narrowed down to 3-2. Young midfielder Musab Al-Juwayr opened the scoring, followed by a goal from Mohammed Al-Qahtani before halftime. Abdullah Otayf, in his final appearance, secured the third goal. However, two late goals from the visitors reminded Al-Hilal that improvement is needed.
As the season concludes, significant changes are expected at the club, with head coach Ramon Diaz already back in Argentina and several foreign players potentially departing. Nevertheless, finishing third, winning the King's Cup, and reaching the finals of the Asian Champions League and FIFA Club World Cup provide solace. Al-Hilal, now free to sign players after a transfer ban, looks forward to the upcoming challenges.
Al-Shabab, once contenders for the title, ended a run of five defeats in six matches with a convincing 4-1 victory over Damac, spearheaded by Aaron Boupendza's four goals. Additionally, Al-Taawoun deserves recognition for winning their last six games, including a victory against the newly crowned champions, securing a commendable fifth-place finish, only a point behind.
While the top positions have been settled, the battle to avoid relegation intensified. Al-Adalah and Al-Khaleej had recently found form, putting Al-Fayha on edge. In a dramatic turn of events, Al-Khaleej, reduced to ten men and drawing 1-1 against Abha, saw Morato score twice to secure a crucial victory and ensure their stay in the top flight. Al-Adalah, unfortunately, suffered relegation.
This season will undoubtedly be remembered for its excitement, and it will take time to digest all that has transpired. As we look ahead to the next season, one thing is certain: the coming weeks will bring a flurry of changes and a busy summer as teams prepare for new challenges after an exhilarating campaign.