Karim Benzema Grabs Assist in Heavy Win for Al Ittihad on Saudi Pro League Debut

• Al-Ittihad began their Saudi Pro League title defence on a winning note
• Marquee signing, Karim Benzema played a key role in their 3-0 victory against Al-Raed
• Up next for Benzema and his teammates is a home tie against Al-Taee

Karim Benzema marked his debut in the Saudi Pro League by providing an assist as Al-Ittihad secured a resounding victory over Al-Raed at the King Abdullah Sport City Stadium on Monday, August 14.

Abderrazak Hamdallah, last season's top scorer in the Saudi top-flight, delivered a solitary goal, and Igor Coronado added a brace, setting the stage for Ittihad to commence their title defence on a triumphant note.

After a disappointing exit in the quarterfinals of the Arab Club Champions Cup, Nuno Espirito Santo's team began their league opener with a slow start, failing to find the net in the initial half.

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However, the momentum shifted in the second half as Benzema seamlessly collaborated with Hamdallah.

The prolific Moroccan eluded a couple of Al-Raed defenders before powerfully striking the ball into the roof of the net, breaking the deadlock in the 58th minute.

In the 73rd minute, Brazilian midfielder Coronado doubled the Tigers' advantage. He extended their lead further, securing both his personal second goal and the team's third just six minutes later.

The 35-year-old demonstrated his full potential during his league debut, while fellow summer signings N'Golo Kante and Fabinho were substituted in the latter part of the second half. Additionally, Jota made a brief appearance in the comprehensive victory.

With a convincing 3-0 win, Al Ittihad claimed the top spot in the league standings, owing to their superior goal difference over title contenders Al-Hilal after the conclusion of match day one.

Benzema, the reigning Ballon d'Or holder, and his teammates are set to return to action on Saturday, August 19, when they will host Al-Taee at the Prince Abdullah al-Faisal Stadium in Jeddah, per GOAL.

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Benzema ranked 2nd in Saudi

Earlier, Sports Brief reported that the summer transfer window has witnessed a wave of eminent players transitioning from European football to the Saudi Pro League.

The footballing world was taken aback when it was disclosed that Karim Benzema, the reigning Ballon d'Or awardee, would be embarking on a new chapter with Al-Ittihad.

Having impressively netted 354 goals for Spanish giants Real Madrid, the French striker solidified his stature as one of the preeminent global forwards, securing a ranking just behind Cristiano Ronaldo in the Gulf nation.