Neom SC holds off Al-Fayha fightback to claim home victory
Neom SC came out with purpose and took the game to Al-Fayha from the opening exchanges. The hosts dominated the early stages, controlling possession and forcing their visitors onto the back foot. That territorial advantage translated into a two-goal lead before half-time, with clinical finishing punishing Al-Fayha's defensive lapses.
Ayoub Kone broke the deadlock in the 26th minute, firing Neom SC ahead. Ten minutes later, Said Benrahma doubled the advantage with a well-taken finish to send the home side into the interval in commanding position at 2-0. Al-Fayha offered little resistance during those opening 45 minutes, struggling to gain any meaningful foothold in the match.
The complexion changed dramatically after the break. A 62nd-minute red card for Neom SC's A. Al-Hejji swung momentum toward the visitors, and Al-Fayha capitalised on their numerical advantage when Hernanes Moura pulled one back in the 75th minute. The away side pressed hard for an equaliser in the closing stages, with Al-Fayha's Stephane Ganvoula earning a yellow card for dissent as frustration mounted. Despite severe pressure in the closing moments, Neom SC held firm.
The home victory leaves Neom SC in strong shape early in the season, though they will need to tighten their discipline following the dismissal. Al-Fayha showed character in their comeback bid but ultimately fell short, leaving them with work to do as the campaign progresses.
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