Nigerian defender William Troost-Ekong found the net for Al-Kholood on Saturday, but his goal was not enough to prevent a 4-3 defeat to Al-Ittihad in a pulsating Saudi Pro League encounter.
Buoyed by a 2-1 victory over Al-Raed in their previous outing, Al-Kholood started with confidence and took an early lead in the 15th minute through Troost-Ekong, who rose highest to head his team in front. Eight minutes later, Myziane Maolida doubled their advantage, putting the hosts in control.
However, Al-Ittihad responded with determination, cutting the deficit in the 35th minute when Abdurahman Al-Obood found the net. Just before halftime, Steven Bergwijn converted a penalty in stoppage time to level the score at 2-2.
Al-Ittihad carried their momentum into the second half, completing their comeback in the 47th minute through Hasan Kadesh, before Bergwijn struck again to extend their lead. Al-Kholood pushed to find a way back, with Maolida scoring his second of the match, but the late effort was not enough to salvage a point.
The victory lifted Al-Ittihad to 46 points, level with league leaders Al Hilal but behind on goal difference. Meanwhile, Al-Kholood remain 12th on the table with 19 points from 12 matches, maintaining a five-point cushion above the relegation zone.
Al-Ittihad will look to build on their momentum when they travel to face Al-Taawoun, while Al-Kholood will aim to rebound at home against Al Riyadh.
