Al-Nassr Overcome Al-Kholood to Top Saudi Pro League
In front of a jubilant crowd at Al-Awwal Park, Al-Nassr claimed a decisive 2-0 victory over Al-Kholood on Sunday night, cementing their place at the top of the Saudi Pro League with a 100 percent record from the opening two games of the 2025-26 season.
Following a goalless opening half, Senegalese forward Sadio Mané broke the deadlock in the 52nd minute, converting with precision after a smart flick from Kingsley Coman. Mané’s right-foot finish left goalkeeper Juan Pablo Cozzani with no chance and ignited celebrations among the home supporters.
The lead was doubled in the 82nd minute, when Spanish defender Iñigo Martínez rose above the defense to meet a perfectly delivered Marcelo Brozović corner. His powerful header found the net to Cozzani’s right, effectively sealing the win for Jorge Jesus’ side.
The match could have taken a nervy turn just minutes before full-time, when Al-Kholood were awarded a penalty in the 89th minute. However, Myziane Maolida failed to convert, sparing Al-Nassr any late drama and assuring them of their first home league win of the campaign.
The victory saw Al-Nassr join Al-Ittihad and Al-Khaleej on six points, though they sit atop the standings owing to a superior goal difference.
Elsewhere on Sunday, Al-Riyadh edged out newly promoted Al-Najma with a 2-1 win, while another top-tier newcomer, Neom, notched their first points of the season by defeating Damac 2-1 away from home.
Team V.DIR-EM-UAE
