ALQASSIM — Al Kholood produced one of the biggest upsets in King’s Cup history, eliminating holders Al Ittihad in the semi-finals after a dramatic penalty shootout.The match ended 1-1 after regular and extra time, before Al Kholood sealed a 5-4 victory on penalties in a night that will be remembered for years in Al-Rass.The newly promoted side, competing in the Saudi Pro League for the first time since summer 2024, knocked out the defending champions, who have endured a disappointing season and currently sit sixth in the league.Moussa Diaby gave Al Ittihad the lead in the 40th minute, but Abdulaziz Al Aliwa equalized for Al Kholood in the 73rd minute.In extra time, Steven Bergwijn restored Al Ittihad’s advantage in the 96th minute at the start of the first additional period.However, Adam Berry brought Al Kholood level again with a late goal in the 111th minute, forcing the tie into penalties.Al Kholood held their nerve in the shootout to secure a historic qualification, while Diaby missed the decisive spot-kick for Al Ittihad.
ALQASSIM — Al Kholood produced one of the biggest upsets in King’s Cup history, eliminating holders Al Ittihad in the semi-finals after a dramatic penalty shootout.The match ended 1-1 after regular and extra time, before Al Kholood sealed a 5-4 victory on penalties in a night that will be remembered for years in Al-Rass.The newly promoted side, competing in the Saudi Pro League for the first time since summer 2024, knocked out the defending champions, who have endured a disappointing season and currently sit sixth in the league.Moussa Diaby gave Al Ittihad the lead in the 40th minute, but Abdulaziz Al Aliwa equalized for Al Kholood in the 73rd minute.In extra time, Steven Bergwijn restored Al Ittihad’s advantage in the 96th minute at the start of the first additional period.However, Adam Berry brought Al Kholood level again with a late goal in the 111th minute, forcing the tie into penalties.Al Kholood held their nerve in the shootout to secure a historic qualification, while Diaby missed the decisive spot-kick for Al Ittihad.
