En-Nesyri’s defensive shift helps Al-Ittihad outsmart Al-Nassr in Roshn Saudi League classic

Al-Ittihad secured a 2-1 victory over Al-Nassr after a late tactical adjustment by German coach Yens Vising helped his side protect their lead in an absorbing Roshn Saudi League classic.

The match, played at Alinma Stadium in the fifth round of the competition, featured several notable moments, but the clearest insight into Al-Ittihad’s approach came from a written instruction sent by Vising to captain Danilo Pereira during the game.

The message reflected a series of changes made by the German coach in the closing stages, as Al-Ittihad sought to contain Al-Nassr’s attacking threat and preserve their advantage.

One of the most important decisions was the introduction of right-back Mehdi Al-Shanqeeti. His main task was to strengthen the area on Al-Ittihad’s left, which was Al-Nassr’s right-hand side and the principal route used by the visitors to build their attacks.

Al-Nassr had repeatedly focused on that flank, making it a potential source of danger. Vising responded by adding greater defensive protection in the zone, limiting the space available to Al-Nassr and reducing the effectiveness of their attacks.

The coach also gave Morocco striker Youssef En-Nesyri a different responsibility in the final stages. Rather than being used solely as an outlet in attack, En-Nesyri was instructed to contribute defensively and move towards the same side of the pitch that had been causing Al-Ittihad problems.

That change meant the striker became part of the defensive structure whenever Al-Nassr attempted to advance down the flank. His positioning helped Al-Ittihad close passing lanes and provide additional cover around Al-Shanqeeti and the other defenders.

As the match entered its final phase, Al-Ittihad effectively changed to a system featuring five defenders, with four further players positioned in central areas. The compact shape made it difficult for Al-Nassr to find room in and around the penalty area.

The tactical switch succeeded in disrupting most of Al-Nassr’s late attacks. Al-Ittihad’s defensive organisation, combined with the performance of Serbian goalkeeper Predrag Rajkovic, allowed the club to withstand the pressure and claim all three points.

The result gave Al-Ittihad a valuable win in one of the league’s major fixtures, while the match also underlined Vising’s ability to react during games. His instructions from the touchline and the changes implemented by his players proved decisive in the closing minutes.

The most striking element was the way En-Nesyri adapted to the plan. His defensive duties formed part of a broader tactical solution that helped Al-Ittihad shut down the area Al-Nassr had targeted and turn a dangerous finish into a successful one.

With Al-Shanqeeti reinforcing the flank, En-Nesyri tracking back, and the team adopting a five-man defensive line, Al-Ittihad managed to frustrate Al-Nassr and protect their 2-1 lead until the final whistle.