Match Report:
The closing moments were all but kind to NEOM S.C.

NEOM S.C. suffer a narrow defeat to Al Qadsiah after conceding the only goal of the match. The encounter had been heading toward a goalless draw before Al Qadsiah struck late to secure all three points at Prince Mohammed bin Fahad Sports City Stadium in Al Dammam.

Following the loss, NEOM S.C.’s tally remains on 28 points, with the team holding eighth place temporarily.

Head coach Christophe Galtier started the match with Luís Maximiano in goal, supported by Khalifah Al Dawsari, Ahmed Hegazi, Nathan Zézé, Faris Abdi, and Mohammed Al Burayk. In midfield and attack, the lineup featured Amadou Koné, Alaa Hejji, Rayane Messi, Luciano Rodríguez, and Alexandre Lacazette.

First Half

Al Qadsiah began aggressively, launching early pressure in search of a quick opener. Their first notable chance arrived in the 3rd minute with a powerful shot that sailed over the crossbar.

NEOM S.C. showed strong defensive organization and resilience, standing firm against the hosts’ attacks. In the 34th minute, Alexandre Lacazette nearly changed the course of the game with a dangerous counterattack, but Al Qadsiah’s defense reacted superbly to deny him. Shortly afterward, Luciano Rodríguez unleashed a fierce effort that forced a difficult save from Al Qadsiah’s goalkeeper.

Just before halftime, the referee initially awarded a penalty to Al Qadsiah, only to overturn the decision after consulting VAR.

Second Half

Khalifah Al Dawsari impressed early in the second period, helping neutralize a threatening Al Qadsiah move alongside Ahmed Hegazi. Maximiano then produced an excellent save to stop a powerful shot from the home side.

NEOM S.C. displayed greater attacking intent while maintaining defensive solidity. Maximiano continued his standout performance, notably denying Al Qadsiah forward Quiñones with a brilliant save.

However, heartbreak came in the final minute, as Al Qadsiah found the decisive breakthrough, scoring the match’s only goal and snatching victory at the death.