Al-Nassr defeated Al-Kholood 2-0, maintaining their winning start to the Saudi Pro League season. Goals from Sadio Mane and Inigo Martinez secured the victory, with goalkeeper Raghid Najjar saving a late penalty to preserve the clean sheet.
Al-Nassr continued their impressive start to the Saudi Pro League season with a commanding 2-0 victory over Al-Kholood at Al-Awaal Park. Goals in the second half from Sadio Mane and debutant Inigo Martinez secured all three points for Jorge Jesus’ side, propelling them to the top of the league table.
The match began with Al-Nassr struggling to find their rhythm against a resolute Al-Kholood defense. The first half proved to be a tightly contested affair, with both teams creating limited opportunities. However, the introduction of fresh legs and tactical adjustments at the break proved pivotal for the hosts.
Just seven minutes into the second half, Al-Nassr broke the deadlock. A beautifully crafted one-two between Sadio Mane and Kingsley Coman unlocked the Al-Kholood defense. Mane, displaying his trademark composure, finished with a clever reverse finish, sending the Al-Awaal Park crowd into raptures. The Senegalese international’s goal injected confidence into the Al-Nassr players and shifted the momentum firmly in their favor.
The hosts nearly doubled their advantage midway through the second half. Mane once again proved to be a thorn in the side of the Al-Kholood defense, unleashing a powerful effort that forced goalkeeper Juan Pablo Cozzani into a parry. Unfortunately for the visitors, the rebound fell to Coman, who blazed his shot over the open goal, much to his frustration.
Despite the missed opportunity, Al-Nassr continued to press forward, and their persistence paid off in the 80th minute. Marcelo Brozovic delivered a pinpoint corner kick, which was met by the towering presence of Inigo Martinez. The Spanish defender rose highest, heading the ball past Cozzani and into the back of the net, extending Al-Nassr’s lead to 2-0.
As the game entered its final stages, Al-Kholood attempted to salvage something from the match. They were awarded a late penalty after Martinez was adjudged to have fouled Muhammad Sawaan. However, Al-Nassr goalkeeper Raghid Najjar proved to be the hero, correctly guessing Myziane Maolida’s spot-kick and preserving his clean sheet.
The victory marked Al-Nassr’s second consecutive win of the season, a feat they haven’t achieved since the 2019-20 campaign. They remain unbeaten in their last 10 league games played in September, showcasing their dominance during this period. In contrast, Al-Kholood’s struggles on the road continued, with only one win in their last 11 away league matches.
Second Gamepic.twitter.com/6fYm2Adxu6
— AlNassr FC (@AlNassrFC_EN) September 14, 2025
Data Debrief: Al-Nassr’s strong start to the season is a testament to the quality within their squad and the tactical acumen of Jorge Jesus. The addition of players like Martinez has clearly strengthened the team, providing them with greater defensive solidity and attacking options. For Al-Kholood, the defeat highlights the challenges they face in competing with the league’s top teams. They will need to address their defensive vulnerabilities and improve their away form if they are to climb the league table.
The match also showcased the growing competitiveness of the Saudi Pro League, with teams investing heavily in talent and striving to establish themselves as forces to be reckoned with. Al-Nassr’s victory serves as a warning to their rivals, signaling their intent to challenge for the league title this season.
