On March 19, 2026, in Al-Rass, Al Kholood faced off against Al Ittihad in the semi-finals of the King’s Cup, setting the stage for a thrilling encounter. The match began with both teams showing their intent, but it was Al Ittihad who drew first blood. In the 40th minute, Moussa Diaby scored, putting the defending champions ahead.
However, Al Kholood responded with resilience. In the 73rd minute, Abdulaziz Al Aliwa equalized, bringing hope to the underdogs. The match continued to unfold dramatically, with Al Ittihad regaining the lead in the 96th minute through a goal from Steven Bergwijn.
As the game progressed into extra time, Al Kholood refused to back down. Adam Berry scored in the 111th minute, leveling the match once again. The score stood at 1-1 after regular and extra time, leading to a penalty shootout to determine who would advance to the final.
The penalty shootout was tense, with both teams showcasing their skills under pressure. Ultimately, Al Kholood triumphed, winning 5-4 on penalties. Notably, Diaby missed the decisive penalty for Al Ittihad, sealing the fate of the defending champions.
This match is considered one of the biggest upsets in King’s Cup history, as Al Kholood eliminated the reigning champions. This victory is particularly significant for Al Kholood, as they are competing in the Saudi Pro League for the first time since summer 2024.
Currently, Al Ittihad sits sixth in the league, a position that reflects their struggles this season despite their previous success in the King’s Cup. The defeat in the semi-finals is a setback for a team that has been accustomed to winning.
As Al Kholood celebrates this historic qualification, they have not only made their mark in the tournament but also demonstrated their potential as a competitive force in Saudi football. The implications of this match extend beyond just a single game; it represents a shift in the competitive landscape of the league.
With this victory, Al Kholood has gained momentum and confidence, while Al Ittihad will need to regroup and reassess their strategy moving forward. The outcome of this match will resonate in the coming weeks as both teams navigate their respective paths in the league and future competitions.