Algerian midfielder Houssem Aouar shines with double as Al Ittihad defeat Al Shorta in AFC Champions League

Houssem Aouar delivered a standout performance, scoring twice as Al Ittihad claimed a 4-1 victory over Iraqi side Al Shorta in the AFC Champions League.

With Karim Benzema absent, the Algerian international led the attack and produced a commanding display that helped his team secure a crucial group-stage win.

Al Shorta made a bright start and stunned Al Ittihad with an early goal in the fifth minute. However, Nuno Espírito Santo’s men responded with composure and turned the game around before halftime.

Moussa Diaby equalised in the 17th minute after a sharp attacking move. The French winger finished clinically to bring Al Ittihad level. Fabinho then added a second in the 29th minute, converting from close range to give the Saudi champions a deserved lead.

Al Ittihad controlled possession and dictated the tempo as Al Shorta struggled to cope with their attacking combinations.

Aouar, deployed as a central forward, grew in confidence as the game progressed and became increasingly influential in the final third.

After the break, Al Ittihad maintained their dominance. In the 60th minute, Diaby broke through on the right wing and delivered a precise pass into the box.

Aouar timed his run perfectly, found space between defenders, and calmly slotted home to extend the lead to 3-1.

The Algerian midfielder continued to trouble Al Shorta’s defence with intelligent movement and quick passing.

His link-up play with Diaby and Fabinho kept Al Ittihad in full control.

Sixteen minutes later, Aouar struck again to seal the victory. After Al Shorta missed a chance at the other end, Aouar initiated a rapid counterattack from deep in his half.

He evaded one challenge and released Diaby with a clever forward pass. Diaby carried the ball into space before returning it to Aouar, who finished confidently to make it 4-1 in the 76th minute.

The goal capped a brilliant night for Aouar, whose composure and creativity defined Al Ittihad’s attacking rhythm.

His performance drew praise from fans and teammates alike, reinforcing his growing importance in the squad.

Even without Benzema, Al Ittihad showed their attacking depth and tactical flexibility.

Diaby’s pace and Fabinho’s control in midfield created multiple openings, while Aouar’s finishing proved decisive.

Al Shorta, despite their promising start, struggled to contain Al Ittihad’s fluid passing and pressing intensity.

The Iraqi side failed to regain momentum after conceding the second goal and spent much of the match defending deep.

Aouar’s double marked one of his most influential games since joining Al Ittihad. His ability to adapt to a more advanced role demonstrated his versatility and football intelligence.

The result strengthens Al Ittihad’s position in the competition as they continue their pursuit of continental success.

For Aouar, the performance stands as a clear statement of intent — a reminder of his quality and his growing confidence on the Asian stage.