Al Taawoun Starts Pre-Season Strong with 2-0 Win Over Helmond Sport

Saudi Pro League side Al Taawoun kicked off their 2026 pre-season schedule with a comfortable 2-0 victory over Dutch Eerste Divisie club Helmond Sport. The match, played on a warm July evening in the Netherlands, saw Al Taawoun control proceedings from the outset, showcasing their technical quality and physical edge. The friendly served as a key part of Al Taawoun's European training camp.

Match Overview

Al Taawoun dominated possession and created the better chances throughout. Helmond Sport struggled to impose their passing game against a well-organized Saudi side that pressed effectively. The first half ended goalless despite several opportunities, but Al Taawoun broke the deadlock shortly after the restart. A second goal sealed the result, allowing manager Manuel Alexandre to rotate his squad in the final 30 minutes.

Key Moments

• First Half Chances: Both sides had early attempts, with Al Taawoun's captain Álvaro Medrán forcing a fine save from the Helmond goalkeeper.
• Al Taawoun's Opening Goal (52'): A well-worked move down the left saw a cross headed home by striker Léandre Tawamba, rising above the defense.
• Second Goal (70'): Substitute winger Sultan Al-Mandhar finished coolly after a rapid counter-attack, slotting past the onrushing goalkeeper.
• Helmond's Resistance: The Dutch side had a goal disallowed for offside in the 75th minute and struck the post late in the game, but could not find a way past Al Taawoun's defense.

Tactical Story

Al Taawoun set up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Medrán orchestrating play from deep. Their full-backs pushed high, creating width and overlapping runs. Helmond Sport attempted to play out from the back but were frequently forced into long balls by Al Taawoun's pressing. The Saudi side's physical superiority was evident in duels and set pieces. After taking the lead, they dropped deeper and countered effectively, exploiting spaces left by Helmond's push forward.

Standout Players

Álvaro Medrán (Al Taawoun): The Spanish midfielder controlled the tempo, completing a high percentage of passes and dictating the flow of the game.
Léandre Tawamba (Al Taawoun): The experienced forward scored the opening goal and led the line superbly, holding off defenders and linking play.
Helmond Goalkeeper: Despite the loss, the Dutch keeper made several good saves to keep the scoreline respectable.

Season Impact

Al Taawoun will be pleased with a solid performance and clean sheet as they build towards the Saudi Pro League season. The victory continues their encouraging pre-season form. For Helmond Sport, the defeat highlights areas for improvement, particularly in defensive transitions and finishing, as they prepare for the Eerste Divisie campaign. The friendly provided useful match fitness and tactical insights for both coaching staffs.