Al Ahli SC produced a ruthless display to thrash Al Fateh 4-0 in the Saudi Professional League on Friday, with Riyad Mahrez pulling the strings in a dominant away performance at the Prince Abdullah bin Jalawi Stadium.

Match Overview

Al Ahli were relentless from the first whistle, taking the lead in the 14th minute through a clinical finish from Roberto Firmino after a slick exchange with Mahrez. The visitors doubled their advantage on 28 minutes when Mahrez floated a cross to the back post for a towering header. The contest was effectively over in the 38th minute when Al Fateh were reduced to ten men after a defender was shown a straight red card for a professional foul on the edge of the box.

Al Ahli added a third just before half-time, Mahrez again the architect, sliding a pass through for a cool finish. The fourth arrived in the 67th minute as a substitute rounded off a flowing counter-attack. Al Fateh, shell-shocked and a man down, offered little resistance in the final half-hour.

Key Moments

• 14' — Roberto Firmino opens the scoring for Al Ahli.
• 28' — A second goal from a Mahrez assist doubles the lead.
• 38' — Al Fateh are reduced to ten men after a red card.
• 45+1' — Al Ahli make it 3-0 before the break.
• 67' — A fourth goal completes the rout.

Tactical Story

Al Ahli set up in a fluid 4-2-3-1 with Mahrez given licence to drift inside from the right. Their high press suffocated Al Fateh's build-up, forcing turnovers in dangerous areas. Al Fateh's back four, already struggling with the movement of Firmino, collapsed after the red card. The home side tried to switch to a low block, but Al Ahli's quick passing and constant rotations pulled them apart. It was a masterclass in controlling a game from start to finish.

Standout Players

Riyad Mahrez (Al Ahli) — The Algerian was unplayable, providing two assists and constantly tormenting the Al Fateh defence. Roberto Firmino (Al Ahli) — The Brazilian scored the opener and led the line with intelligence, linking play brilliantly. For Al Fateh, there were few positives, though their goalkeeper made several saves to prevent an even heavier defeat.

Season Impact

Al Ahli move up to second in the Saudi Professional League standings, keeping pace with the title-chasing pack. Al Fateh remain in 15th, hovering dangerously close to the relegation zone. With goal difference potentially crucial at both ends of the table, this comprehensive win is a significant boost for Al Ahli's title ambitions and a damaging blow to Al Fateh's survival hopes. The head-to-head record now heavily favours Al Ahli, who have scored 10 goals in their last three meetings with Al Fateh.