Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong was on target for Al-Kholood, but his side fell short in a dramatic 4-3 thriller against Al-Ittihad in the Saudi Pro League on Saturday.
The Nigerian defender gave his team the perfect start, heading in a corner kick in the 15th minute for his second goal of the season.
Myziane Maolida doubled Al-Kholood’s lead in the 23rd minute, putting them in control.
@WTroostEkong #RoshnSaudiLeague pic.twitter.com/aLwEdCB0o9
— Roshn Saudi League (@SPL_EN) February 1, 2025
However, Al-Ittihad came roaring back. Abdulrahman Al-Oboud pulled one back in the 35th minute, and Dutch star Steven Bergwijn leveled from the penalty spot just before halftime.
The second half belonged to the home side as Mohammed Kadesh put Al-Ittihad ahead before Bergwijn struck again to make it 4-2. Maolida’s late goal gave Al-Kholood hope, but they couldn’t find the equalizer.
Ekong in action against Al-Ittihad
New signing Ambrose Ochigbo made his debut for Al-Kholood, coming off the bench in the second half.
Despite the loss, Troost-Ekong delivered a rock-solid performance. He played all 90 minutes, completed 20 of 24 passes, and recorded 10 clearances—the highest in the match.
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The Nigerian also registered 42 touches, blocked one shot, won one aerial duel, and attempted two shots—one on target.
A goal and a dominant display, but no points for Al-Kholood.
Ekong, now has 2 goals in 18 appearances for Al-Kholood in the Saudi Pro League.
Al-Kholood are fighting to stay up in the Roshn Saudi League after match day 18, sitting 12 with 19 points while Al-Ittihad that has Benzema and Kante are pushing for the title stay 2nd with 46 points.