Match Report:
NEOM SC Climbs to Fourth After Dramatic Away Victory

NEOM, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia – September 27, 2025 – NEOM SC claimed their third consecutive victory in the Roshn Saudi League after defeating hosts Al-Riyadh in a thrilling 3–2 encounter on Saturday night.

French striker Alexandre Lacazette delivered a standout performance, scoring one goal and playing a vital role in the team’s attacking play. He was deservedly named Man of the Match, capping off an evening that confirmed NEOM SC’s continued strong form and their rise to nine points and fourth in the league standings.

First Half

NEOM SC started with intent. Just two minutes in, Luciano Rodríguez opened the scoring with a clinical finish following a perfect cross from Lacazette.

In the fifth minute, Lacazette unleashed a powerful shot that was saved by Al-Riyadh’s goalkeeper in two attempts.

Despite taking the lead, NEOM SC continued to press. Lacazette fired wide from distance in the 9th minute, followed by another effort in the 11th minute that failed to find the net. Said Benrahma then forced a save in the 13th minute with a strong effort.

Al-Riyadh equalised in the 19th minute through Khalil Absi, who capitalised on a cross to smash home a powerful finish. NEOM SC responded quickly through captain Ahmed Hegazi restoring the lead in the 27th minute with a towering header from a corner.

Al-Riyadh nearly found another equaliser in the 30th minute, but Luis Maximiano produced a great save to deny Ismaila Soro. NEOM SC looked to extend their lead in the closing stages of the half. In the 41st minute, Rodríguez tested the keeper again, followed by a close attempt from Abbas Al Hassan in the 44th that missed the target.

Second Half

Al-Riyadh created the first dangerous moment of the half, but Maximiano was alert and handled it well. A few moments later Simon Bouabry had a chance for NEOM SC but was denied by the Al-Riyadh keeper.

Then came the third goal. In the 54th minute, Benrahma delivered a pinpoint cross and Lacazette rose to head home NEOM SC’s third.

Both teams continued to trade attacks. Al-Riyadh attempted to cut the deficit in the 60th minute but Maximiano responded with a strong save. NEOM SC countered in the 61st minute with a fierce strike from Bouabry, which was also saved.

Al-Riyadh pulled one back in the 77th minute when Abdoulaye Doucouré inadvertently turned a cross into his own net. The home side pushed for an equaliser, with their best opportunity coming in the 84th minute, but the shot sailed wide.

The final whistle confirmed NEOM SC’s 3–2 win, securing their third straight victory and taking them to fourth in the league standings.