Al-Ahli Maintain Perfect Start with 2-0 Win Over Al-Ta’ee

The away team found themselves reduced to ten players early on when former Nottingham Forest loanee, Alfa Semedo, received a red card in the 35th minute. During the first half, Allan Saint-Maximin consistently posed a threat down the left flank for Al-Ahli. The summer signing, who was acquired for £30 million, showcased a strong partnership with fellow newcomer Riyad Mahrez, resulting in the opening goal just before the halftime whistle. Mahrez efficiently converted Saint-Maximin’s well-placed low cross at the rear post, marking his second goal for Al-Ahli since his transfer from Manchester City.

In the second half, Al-Ahli remained on the offensive, and their persistence paid off around the hour mark when Franck Kessie scored the second goal. Positioned at the edge of the penalty area, the Ivorian midfielder found an opening and accurately placed his shot into the bottom corner of the net. This marked his second goal in as many games since his move from Barcelona over the summer.

Manager Matthias Jaissle expressed his satisfaction with his team’s performance against a resolute opponent. With this victory, Al-Ahli secured their third consecutive win, putting them on equal footing with Al Ittihad at the top of the early Saudi Pro League standings. The team’s quest for an unblemished record will continue as they face Al-Fateh next Saturday.

The match proved to be a comfortable outing for Al-Ahli, with the hosts asserting their dominance from the outset. The outcome was never in question after Mahrez’s initial goal, and Kessie’s subsequent contribution secured a routine three points. Al-Ta’ee, on the other hand, will strive to bounce back when they welcome Abha to the Prince Abdul Aziz bin Musa’ed Stadium on Friday evening.