Riyad Mahrez’s Al Ahli stunned late as Al Qadsiah complete stunning comeback

Title-chasing Al Ahli Saudi FC saw their 17-match unbeaten streak come to an abrupt end after a dramatic late comeback by Al Qadsiah FC in the Saudi Pro League.

The visitors, featuring Algerian winger Riyad Mahrez, had appeared to be on course for another positive result after establishing a two-goal lead in the first half.

However, Al Qadsiah produced a remarkable turnaround, scoring twice in stoppage time to secure a dramatic victory.

Despite playing away against one of the well-financed clubs in the league, Al Ahli began the match confidently and controlled large periods of the opening half.

Their breakthrough arrived in the 27th minute following a set piece delivered by Mahrez.

The Algerian’s free kick was initially pushed away, but the ball was returned into the penalty area where Ivan Toney reacted quickest. The striker struck a superb effort to give Al Ahli the lead.

The visitors continued to press and nearly doubled their advantage when Mahrez created another opportunity. Shortly afterwards, they did extend their lead before the break.

A corner taken by the Algerian was worked back into the area and a well-placed through ball allowed Yvan Neyou Atangana Edoa to finish, making it 2-0 in the 42nd minute.

Al Qadsiah responded after the restart. In the 63rd minute, Musab Al Juwayr reduced the deficit, scoring shortly after Mahrez had sent a shot into the side netting at the other end.

Mahrez remained influential, later producing an impressive pass for Ali Al Majrashi, but the move ended without reward as the ball went out of play.

The home side’s persistence paid off late in the game. Deep into stoppage time, Turki Al Ammar equalised in the 92nd minute, setting up a tense finale.

Moments later, a long throw-in created further danger in the Al Ahli penalty area. The ball eventually fell to Ibrahim Mahnashi, who scored in the 97th minute to complete the comeback and secure victory for Al Qadsiah.

The result keeps Al Qadsiah firmly in the title race as they occupy fourth place in the standings.

Al Ahli remain second behind Al Nassr FC, but the competition at the top of the table remains extremely close, with only four points separating the league’s leading four teams.