Al-Ittihad shocked Al-Nassr with a 2-1 victory in the Saudi King’s Cup round of 16 at Al-Awwal Park in Riyadh on October 28, 2025. The result eliminated Cristiano Ronaldo’s team from the competition and extended his trophy drought in Saudi Arabia to more than two and a half years. Despite being reduced to ten men after Houssem Aouar’s red card, Al-Ittihad held on with grit and determination. The loss was another blow to Al-Nassr’s ambitions this season.
The match drew massive attention as it featured two football icons — Karim Benzema and Cristiano Ronaldo. Fans packed the stadium in anticipation of a fierce contest, and the atmosphere was electric from kickoff. Al-Ittihad started aggressively, pressing high and forcing Al-Nassr’s defenders into errors. Their approach paid off early, giving them control of the first half.
Benzema’s Early Brilliance
In the 23rd minute, Karim Benzema opened the scoring with a calm finish from Romarinho’s cross. The goal showcased his composure and world-class instincts in front of goal. It also reminded fans why the French veteran remains one of the game’s finest strikers. Al-Nassr attempted to respond quickly, with Anderson Talisca and Marcelo Brozović trying to create openings. Cristiano Ronaldo tested the goalkeeper with a long-range shot, while Sadio Mané forced a save with a curling attempt. Despite their pressure, Al-Nassr could not break through Al-Ittihad’s solid defensive setup.
Yahya Equalizes, but Hamdallah Strikes Back
The second half began with Al-Nassr dominating possession. Their efforts paid off in the 58th minute when Ayman Yahya equalized after a slick move involving Brozović and Alex Telles. The home fans roared as Al-Nassr pushed for another goal.
However, Abderrazak Hamdallah stunned them in the 67th minute. The Moroccan striker capitalized on a defensive mistake by Abdullah Al-Amri, firing past David Ospina with precision. The goal came against the run of play and restored Al-Ittihad’s lead, proving the visitors’ clinical counterattacking style.
Aouar’s Red Card and Ronaldo’s Miss
Al-Ittihad’s task became harder in the 73rd minute when Houssem Aouar received a second yellow card for a rough tackle. Reduced to ten men, they switched to a compact 4-4-1 formation under Marcelo Gallardo’s direction. Al-Nassr increased the pressure, launching wave after wave of attacks.
Ronaldo led the charge, narrowly missing with a header and several free kicks. Deep into stoppage time, Al-Nassr were awarded a penalty after Romarinho was penalized for handball. Ronaldo stepped up, but his shot struck the crossbar and bounced away. It was a heartbreaking miss that sealed Al-Ittihad’s triumph.
Ronaldo’s Trophyless Struggle
The defeat means Cristiano Ronaldo is still without a major trophy since arriving at Al-Nassr in January 2023. Despite scoring freely in the Saudi Pro League, silverware continues to elude him. His frustration was visible as he left the pitch shaking his head. The fans’ disappointment mirrored his own.
Al-Nassr now shift focus to the league and the AFC Champions League, where they trail Al-Hilal. Pressure is mounting on head coach Luís Castro, who faces questions over tactics and player motivation.
Benzema’s Redemption and Al-Ittihad’s Revival
For Karim Benzema, the victory was more than just a result — it was redemption. The Frenchman had faced criticism earlier in the season for inconsistent performances. His leadership, goal, and tireless work rate silenced the doubters.
Abderrazak Hamdallah continued his fine form, combining brilliantly with Romarinho and Benzema in attack. Coach Marcelo Gallardo praised his team’s unity and tactical discipline. “We fought for every ball,” he said. “Even with ten men, we believed we could win.”
Al-Ittihad’s defense, led by Ahmed Hegazi and Fabinho, was outstanding. They repelled Al-Nassr’s attacks with composure and organization. The win lifted team morale and renewed hopes of ending the season with silverware.
Tactical Analysis
Al-Ittihad played a smart, disciplined game. They absorbed pressure and hit Al-Nassr on the counter. Their wingers stretched play, while Benzema’s movement unsettled defenders. The decision to target Al-Nassr’s fullbacks worked perfectly, with both goals coming from wide areas.
Al-Nassr’s possession-based approach looked promising but lacked cutting edge. Even with a man advantage, they failed to capitalize. The final third proved their undoing once again, with Ronaldo isolated and service limited.
Broader Impact on Saudi Football
The result sent shockwaves through Saudi football. For Al-Ittihad, it was proof of their resurgence under Gallardo. For Al-Nassr, it was another reminder that star power alone does not guarantee success. The match also highlighted how competitive domestic football in Saudi Arabia has become, with smaller details deciding major matches.
Fans in Jeddah celebrated the victory deep into the night, chanting Benzema’s name and waving club flags. Meanwhile, Al-Nassr supporters voiced their frustration on social media, calling for tactical changes and renewed focus on consistency.
What’s Next for Both Teams
Al-Ittihad advance to the King’s Cup quarter-finals, full of confidence and momentum. Their balanced squad and improved chemistry make them serious contenders for the trophy. If they maintain this level, a deep run in the cup looks likely.
Al-Nassr, however, face a difficult road ahead. Their next league matches are crucial as they try to close the gap on leaders Al-Hilal. Ronaldo’s leadership will be key, but the team must rediscover its identity and improve defensively if they want to stay in contention.
