Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong found the net for Al-Kholood, but it wasn’t enough to prevent a 4-3 defeat to Al-Ittihad in an action-packed Saudi Pro League clash on Saturday.
Troost-Ekong gave Al-Kholood a dream start, rising highest to head home from a corner in the 15th minute his second goal of the season.
William Troost-Ekong celebrates with his Al-Kholood teammates. Photo | X
Eight minutes later, Myziane Maolida doubled their lead, putting the visitors in a commanding position.
However, Al-Ittihad responded swiftly. Abdulrahman Al-Oboud pulled one back in the 35th minute before Dutch forward Steven Bergwijn converted a penalty on the stroke of halftime to level the score at 2-2.
The second half saw more drama, with Al-Ittihad completing their comeback. N’Golo Kanté set up Hassan Kadish to put the hosts ahead for the first time in the 47th minute.
Bergwijn then struck again, securing a brace and giving Al-Ittihad a two-goal cushion.
Maolida struck again for Al-Kholood to make it 4-3, setting up a nervy finish, but Al-Ittihad held firm to secure all three points.
Nigerian Players in Action
Troost-Ekong played the full 90 minutes, scoring once and completing 20 of his 24 attempted passes.
The Nigerian defender was a standout performer at the back, making 10 clearances, the highest in the match while also blocking one shot and making one interception.
He had 42 touches, won two aerial duels, and attempted one shot on target and one off target.
Meanwhile, Nigerian youngster Ambrose Ochiegbo made his debut for Al-Kholood, coming on as a substitute in the 76th minute.
League Standings and What’s Next
Al-Kholood currently sit 12th in the table with 19 points from 17 matches, while Al-Ittihad remain second with 43 points.
With the 2026 World Cup qualifiers resuming in March, Ekong’s leadership and form will be crucial for the Super Eagles as they aim for a strong campaign.
