Benzema class nudges Ittihad past Akhdoud as champions regain top spot

RIYADH: Karim Benzema showed just why he is considered one of the best strikers in the game after scoring the only goal as Al-Ittihad earned an important win away from home.
The Tigers overcame a determined Al-Akhdoud side 1-0 in Najran. But it was the Ittihad captain and one of the biggest names in world football that made the difference.
The Frenchman’s goal-poaching senses were on full alert after latching onto Haroune Camara’s inviting pass in the box, chipping over a committed defender, and kneeing the ball past a flapping Paulo Vitor in the Akhdoud goal.

With the win, Al-Ittihad leapfrog Al-Hilal at the top of the SPL. Hilal could regain the topspot if they defeat Al-Riyadh on Friday.
Ittihad, the current league champions, and Hilal, the most decorated team in Asia, are emerging as the clear front-runners in the early stages of a much improved SPL.
In the night’s other game, Al-Wehda beat Damac in an entertaining 4-2 encounter.
Weekend games include, Al-Nassr, who have regained their momentum after a stuttering start, travelling to Buraydah to face Al-Raed, and Al-Ahli hosting undefeated Al-Taawoun in Jeddah.