Al Ahly Benghazi Edges Ittihad Al Askari 2-1 in Libyan Premier League Thriller

Benghazi, Libya – May 7, 2026 – Al Ahly Benghazi secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Ittihad Al Askari in a pulsating Libyan Premier League encounter at the Benina Martyrs Stadium. The home side needed a second-half resurgence to overcome a resilient opponent and claim three crucial points in the domestic title race.

Match Overview

From the opening whistle, Al Ahly Benghazi imposed their possession-based style, but Ittihad Al Askari defended deep and looked dangerous on the counter. The visitors stunned the home crowd midway through the first half when a swift break ended with a precise finish past the goalkeeper. However, Al Ahly responded with renewed intensity after the interval, equalizing through a well-worked set piece before taking the lead with a clinical strike from inside the box. Despite late pressure from Ittihad Al Askari, the hosts held firm to secure the win.

Key Moments

• 32' – Ittihad Al Askari strike first: A swift counter-attack caught the Al Ahly defense out of position, allowing the away side to slot home from close range.
• 58' – Equalizer: Al Ahly Benghazi’s corner kick was met by a towering header that beat the goalkeeper at the near post.
• 74' – Go-ahead goal: A clever through ball split the Ittihad defense, and the Al Ahly forward calmly finished with his left foot.
• 89' – Late scare: Ittihad Al Askari had a goal ruled out for offside after a VAR review, preserving Al Ahly’s lead.

Tactical Story

Al Ahly Benghazi’s patience in possession eventually paid off. After struggling to break down a compact block in the first half, they increased the tempo and began exploiting the flanks. The introduction of a pacy winger early in the second half stretched the play and created gaps. Ittihad Al Askari, meanwhile, relied on quick transitions and nearly stole a point, but their lack of sustained pressure in the final third proved costly.

Standout Players

• Al Ahly Benghazi's center-forward: A constant menace, he scored the equalizer and assisted the winner with a clever pass.
• Ittihad Al Askari's goalkeeper: Made several sharp saves to keep his team in the match until the final minutes.

Season Impact

The victory lifts Al Ahly Benghazi into the top four of the Libyan Premier League standings, keeping their championship aspirations alive. For Ittihad Al Askari, the narrow defeat leaves them in mid-table, but their spirited performance suggests they can trouble stronger sides.