There are wins that scrape by on luck, and then there are victories that are earned through sheer force of will, defying setbacks and the ticking clock. Al-Hazem’s 2-1 comeback against Damac at the Al-Hazem Club Stadium was unequivocally the latter. This wasn't merely three points; it was a definitive statement, a verdict delivered on the pitch that rewarded relentless persistence against a side content to defend.
The Battle for Midfield Sovereignty
From the first whistle, the narrative was clear: Al-Hazem sought to dictate. Their 57% possession wasn't just a number; it represented a strategic choice to control the tempo and territory. With 456 passes compared to Damac's 332, Al-Hazem meticulously built play, patiently probing for openings. Midfielders like Rosier Loreintz, orchestrating play with an impressive 91% pass accuracy from 81 passes, ensured the ball remained glued to home colours. This control, however, initially struggled to translate into decisive advantage.
Damac's Counterpunch and Al-Hazem's Character Test
Damac, under Armando Evangelista, adopted a distinctly different approach. They were prepared to concede possession, absorbing pressure and relying on rapid transitions. Their 23 tackles and 26 clearances highlighted a defensive solidity designed to frustrate. It was a strategy that paid dividends in the 49th minute when Abdelkader Bedrane, assisted by Abdulrahman Al-Obaid, put them ahead. Suddenly, Al-Hazem’s dominance felt academic.
The match then veered into the dramatic. Despite Al-Hazem’s continued efforts, including 21 crosses and 32 dribble attempts — 15 of which were successful, showcasing a real intent to break lines — the equalizer remained elusive. The ultimate test of character arrived in the 80th minute: an own goal for Al-Hazem, putting them behind 2-1 with just ten minutes left on the clock. For many teams, this would be a breaking point, a moment of resignation. But not this Al-Hazem.
The Unflappable Response
What followed was a testament to Jalel Kadri's side's belief. Rather than crumbling, Al-Hazem intensified their assault. The crucial response came from Abdelkader Bedrane, who leveled the score at 2-2 in the 80th minute. This immediate reply to the own goal was not an accident; it was a consequence of players refusing to accept defeat. The impetus for their late surge was driven by individual brilliance, particularly from Abdurahman Al-Dakheel. The MVP of the match, Al-Dakheel, who maintained an astounding 98% pass accuracy from 41 passes and won 5 of his 7 duels, struck the winning goal in the 87th minute, assisted by the influential Amir Saâyoud.
Saâyoud’s contribution cannot be overstated. With 3 key passes and winning 8 of his 15 duels, he was the creative engine refusing to quit, consistently trying to unlock Damac's compact defense. This late winner, coming from a player who had already demonstrated defensive solidity and offensive drive, cemented Al-Hazem's conviction.
Beyond the Halfway Mark: A Statement of Intent
As the Saudi Pro League passes its halfway point at Round 18, with 16 rounds remaining, such a victory carries more weight than just three points. It’s a psychological triumph. Al-Hazem didn't just win a game; they won a battle of wills, proving their resilience and offensive identity against a team that made them work for every inch. This performance, especially the fortitude shown after conceding an own goal so late, sends a clear message: Al-Hazem believes in its process, and on this day, that belief was undeniably justified.