Karim Benzema‘s scintillating hat-trick helped Al-Ittihad continue their dominant run in the Saudi Pro League, as they crushed Al-Wehda 7-1 on Saturday, maintaining their perfect start to the season.
The French striker wasted no time, scoring just two minutes into the match with a brilliant curling shot beyond Al-Wehda goalkeeper Ignacio de Arruabarrena. Houssem Aouar soon doubled Al-Ittihad’s lead before Youssef Amyn pulled one back for the visitors. However, Fabinho’s header deep into first-half injury time restored a comfortable cushion for Laurent Blanc’s side going into the break.
Benzema returned to haunt Al-Wehda shortly after halftime, netting his second goal of the match. Fawaz Al Yami added a fifth for Al-Ittihad nine minutes later, and substitute Saleh Al Shehri seemingly capped off the scoring in the 87th minute. But Benzema had other plans—he completed his hat-trick after a precise assist from Moussa Diaby, who was in inspired form, creating four goals on the day.
Data Debrief: French Connection Dominates
Al-Ittihad’s resounding victory came with a remarkable xG (expected goals) of 3.69 from 15 shots, with their French duo leading the charge. Benzema alone contributed 1.29 xG, registering five shots on target and completing 30 final-third passes—both game-highs.
Meanwhile, Moussa Diaby, the creative force behind Benzema’s third goal, shone with five key passes and eight touches in the opposition box, joint-most with Benzema. The 25-year-old’s electric display proved instrumental in Al-Ittihad’s attack, further cementing the French connection at the heart of their success.
This win solidifies Al-Ittihad’s place at the top of the Saudi Pro League standings as they continue their flawless start to the campaign.
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