Algerian star Riyad Mahrez, starred for Al Ahli SC on Friday evening as he scored to secure a narrow win for the team against Al Wehda in the Saudi Pro League.
With this win, Al Ahli increased their points tally to 20, moving up to sixth place in the Roshn League standings, while Al Wehda remains in 16th place with just 9 points.
The match saw Al Ahli start with high intensity, putting early pressure on Al Wehda. They had a few close chances, including a dangerous shot from Firas Al-Brikan inside the penalty area, which was saved by the goalkeeper. In the 12th minute, Ivan Toney also had a free-kick opportunity from the edge of the box, but it failed to find the back of the net.
Al Wehda responded with their own chances, including a shot by Youssef Al-Amin in the 20th minute that was saved by Senegalese goalkeeper Edouard Mendy. Al Ahli continued to press, with Ziad Al-Jahni coming close in the 29th minute, sending a shot just wide of the post.
In the 31st minute, Jabari Vega unleashed a powerful shot that was brilliantly saved by Al Wehda’s goalkeeper, and shortly after, Toney’s powerful strike in the 35th minute hit the crossbar. Mendy was also called into action in the 43rd minute, making a crucial save to deny a header from Odion Ighalo.
The breakthrough came in the 55th minute when Riyad Mahrez scored with a clinical one-touch finish following a strong cross.
Another African, Edouard Mendy continued his stellar performance, making important saves in the final stages, ensuring Al Ahli held onto their slender lead and claimed the three points.
