Karim Benzema Scores On Both Ends as Al-Ittihad Stutter in Saudi Pro League Defense
Al-Ittihad’s summer signing Karim Benzema had an eventful match against Al-Taawoun in the Saudi Pro League.
The French striker opened the scoring for the visitors, Al-Ittihad, in the 22nd minute, in what he must have thought was a vital step toward a win for the defending SPL champions.
However, things turned sour in the 26th minute, just four minutes from the opener, when Karim Benzema was involved in a goal against his own team. The former Real Madrid striker miscued a clearance, flatfooted his goalkeeper Grohe, and put through his own net to level the proceedings for the hosts Al-Taawoun.
Although Al-Ittihad dominated possession and the shots on target, they could not find a way through the organization and structure of Al-Taawoun.
The draw means that Al-Taawoun will remain second on the SPL table, hot on the heels of leaders Al-Hilal. Al-Ittihad, meanwhile, are 5th on the table with 20 points, six behind leaders Al-Hilal, and 3 points behind Al-Taawoun in second.
The draw for Benzema’s side also means that they have gone three matches without a win in the Saudi Pro League, managing two draws and a defeat in this run.
For Benzema, he will hope that his luck will change in the next outing. His goals have been crucial for Al-Ittihad, and he was brought in to propel the team to another title. On current evidence, they will need to improve, and fast, to stay in touch with early pacesetters Al-Hilal.
