Al-Ittihad Hold On For Away Victory Over Las Palmas

Las Palmas and Al-Ittihad served up an entertaining pre-season encounter at the Estadio Gran Canaria, though the hosts would ultimately rue missed opportunities and a costly disciplinary lapse. The Saudi side came with clear attacking intent and made that ambition count early, dominating large spells of the opening half despite playing in unfamiliar surroundings. Sunny conditions and a decent crowd created a competitive atmosphere, though neither team had much to lose in this friendly fixture.

Al-Ittihad struck first through M. Diaby in the 15th minute, giving the visitors a dream start. Las Palmas found their rhythm afterwards but were dealt a significant blow when S. Ruiz saw red just eight minutes later, receiving his marching orders in the 23rd minute. That numerical disadvantage looked like it could prove terminal, yet the home side showed real character and resilience. R. Fernandes extended Al-Ittihad's lead just after the break in the 50th minute, seemingly putting the match beyond reach at 2-0.

Las Palmas refused to surrender despite their ten-man status. I. Medina pulled one back in the 78th minute to set up a tense finale, and the hosts threw everything forward in search of an equaliser. Al-Ittihad grew increasingly nervous as the minutes ticked by, with F. Alshamrani picking up a second yellow card in the 90th minute to leave both sides with ten players. Despite the late pressure from the hosts, the visitors held firm to secure a 2-1 victory.

The result gives Al-Ittihad confidence heading into their competitive campaign, though they will want tighter performances defensively. For Las Palmas, the loss stings but their second-half display against the odds showed enough quality to suggest they will compete well in La Liga this season. Both managers will have learned plenty from this encounter as their sides prepare for the challenges ahead.