Al Fateh take their chance to shine on global stage and showcase substantial depth of Roshn Saudi League
Viewers drawn to Roshn Saudi League by Cristiano Ronaldo’s arrival will have already seen that the competition is vibrant, competitive and boasts substantial depth.
This description apply to clubs like Al Fateh.
When Ronaldo scored his first league goal for Al Nassr on February 3 with a last-minute penalty to earn a 2-2 draw there, headlines were made around the world. A player who has scored more goals recognised by FIFA than anyone else in the history of the game had opened his account in Saudi Arabia.
There was also plenty of respect shown to the opposition who were denied what would have been an impressive victory.
Al Fateh almost came out of nowhere to win the title back in 2013, but have been up and down in the league since then. Things do seem to be settling down, however.
Even with two-points dropped, they are in sixth. This follows seventh and eighth-placed finishes in the last two seasons.
Ronaldo had chances to score more against them and the former Real Madrid star was lively from the start. But it was an ex-Barcelona player who made fans at Prince Abdullah bin Jalawi Stadium, and around the world, take notice.
It was Cristian Tello’s first game since arriving from Los Angeles FC. He made a huge impact after just 12 minutes as he volleyed home from the edge of the area.
It was a stunning-and-opportunistic strike from the Spaniard and there was more to come. After Talisca had equalised for Al Nassr with his 13th goal of the season from another very well-worked and well-taken goal, Al Fateh restored their lead in fine fashion.
Sofiane Bendebka’s volley was a lovely side-footed attempt at the far post from a floated cross. The Algeria midfielder’s strike was worthy of winning any game – and it almost won this.
Coach Georgios Donis, a tricky winger in his day, would have loved to have scored either of his team’s goals – and would have loved the extra two points in front of the watching world. Just a few more minutes and the Greek tactician would have been celebrating a famous victory.
The disappointment is a sign of greater expectations at the club, as well as a stronger squad. Swedish goalkeeper Jacob Rinne has looked good between the sticks, while competitive Brazilian Petros adds experience and control to the midfield.
Marwane Saadane has become part of the furniture since joining the club, with the Moroccan ever present in the middle of defence.
Add the attacking riches and Al Fateh are a force to be reckoned with as Al Nassr – plus, the watching world – have already seen.