In a major upset in the King’s Cup, Al-Batin knocked out Al-Ettifaq in a thrilling match that went to a penalty shootout. The game, played at Al-Batin Club Stadium in Hafr Al-Batin for the Round of 32, ended 2-2 after extra time, with Al-Batin winning 4-2 on penalties.
Match Highlights
Al-Ettifaq took an early lead in the 18th minute through Egyptian international Ahmed “Koka” Hassan, who scored after following up on a shot from Francisco Calvo. However, Al-Batin responded just before halftime, with Khaled Al-Khathlan leveling the score in the 40th minute by capitalizing on a rebound off Al-Ettifaq’s goalkeeper, Marek Rodák.
Al-Ettifaq regained the lead shortly after the start of the second half, with Dutch international Georginio Wijnaldum converting a cross from Francisco Calvo in the 47th minute.
The drama continued into injury time when Mohammed Al-Sahli produced a moment of individual brilliance for Al-Batin. He dribbled past defenders on the left flank, entered the penalty area, and fired a shot that the Al-Ettifaq goalkeeper couldn’t save, forcing the game into extra time.
After a goalless extra time, the match was decided by a penalty shootout. Al-Batin held their nerve to win 4-2, securing their place in the tournament’s next round.
