Karim Benzema delivered a dazzling performance on the opening weekend of the Saudi Pro League, scoring a hat-trick as Al-Ittihad swept past Al-Okhdood with a commanding 5-2 victory.
The French striker, who endured a frustrating start to the season in the Saudi Super Cup, wasted no time reminding fans of his class, firing on all cylinders to secure three points for the reigning champions.
With N’Golo Kanté anchoring midfield and Houssem Aouar also finding the net, Al-Ittihad looked every inch a side determined to defend their crown.
Benzema’s treble was as complete as it was clinical.
He struck once with his right foot, once with his left, and completed the hat-trick with a powerful header, underlining the full range of his finishing ability.
His display earned him the man of the match award and the match ball, while setting an early benchmark for the season.
The win was also a reminder of the depth of star power now gracing Saudi football.
Just one day earlier, Cristiano Ronaldo, Kingsley Coman and João Félix had all scored as Al-Nassr opened their campaign with a resounding 5-0 triumph over Al-Taawon, Félix joining Benzema in claiming a hat-trick of his own.
For Al-Ittihad, however, Benzema’s brilliance was the headline act.
His link-up play and movement proved too much for Al-Okhdood’s defence, with his understanding alongside Aouar and Kanté offering manager Marcelo Gallardo plenty of encouragement at this early stage.
Supporters of the Jeddah club will be particularly buoyed by the return to form of their talisman, whose prolific record at Real Madrid made him one of the most feared strikers in world football.
After a relatively subdued start to life in Saudi Arabia, Benzema’s sharpness in front of goal provided a reminder of why Al-Ittihad made him their marquee signing.
The reigning champions will be eager to build on this emphatic start as they navigate a season full of heightened expectation and growing competition.
With rivals strengthening and other high-profile stars arriving in the league, consistency will be crucial.
But on this evidence, Benzema appears ready to carry Al-Ittihad’s title defence on his shoulders.
As the dust settles on the opening weekend, the spotlight is firmly on the Frenchman.
His hat-trick not only propelled Al-Ittihad to victory but also set the tone for a season that promises more spectacle, more goals, and more unforgettable nights in the Saudi Pro League.
The Best player in the game ☝️⚽️#Alittihad_Alakhdoud pic.twitter.com/yIQ9vWI046
— Al-Ittihad Club (@ittihad_en) August 30, 2025
