Al Fateh Snatches Dramatic 2-2 Draw vs Al-Ittihad with Last-Minute Stunner
In a match brimming with late drama, Al Fateh clawed back to secure a thrilling 2-2 draw against Al-Ittihad in the Saudi Pro League on January 29, 2026. The hosts scored a stunning injury-time equalizer to snatch a point after twice falling behind at the Prince Abdullah bin Jalawi Stadium.
Match Recap: Twists Until the Final Whistle
Al-Ittihad started strong and took the lead in the 25th minute through Saleh Al-Shehri, who capitalized on a rebound. Al Fateh fought back and leveled the score in the 74th minute when Mouad Batna converted a penalty after a handball.
The visitors quickly regained the lead, with Al-Shehri scoring his second from the spot just ten minutes later after another handball call. With the match seemingly lost, Al Fateh produced a moment of magic in the ninth minute of added time. Argentine midfielder Matias Vargas curled a spectacular long-range strike into the bottom corner, sending the home crowd into a frenzy and securing a dramatic draw.
Key Players and Tactical Notes
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Saleh Al-Shehri (Al-Ittihad): The match's standout performer, scoring a well-taken brace and leading the line effectively.
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Matias Vargas (Al Fateh): The hero of the night, his stunning late goal salvaged a crucial point and showcased his quality.
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Mouad Batna (Al Fateh): Held his nerve to convert a vital penalty that brought his team back into the contest.
Tactically, Al-Ittihad controlled possession early, while Al Fateh showed impressive resilience and fighting spirit to recover twice.
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League Implications and Context
The draw leaves both teams in the mid-table mix of the Saudi Pro League. For Al Fateh, the late comeback underscores their fighting spirit, while Al-Ittihad will rue dropping two points after leading twice. The match highlighted the competitive nature of the league and provided a spectacle for fans, with the match available for streaming via the FanCode app and website in India.
