Derby Win for Fabinho

This was Fabinho’s third time playing in the Sea Derby – and finally, he won!

“I feel very good,” Fabinho said with a laugh. After losing twice last season, he was happy to finally win this game against Jeddah rivals, Al Ahli. "We needed to win a big game, and it feels good that it was a derby."

Al Ittihad, who are second in the 2024-25 Roshn Saudi League (RSL) standings, beat Al Ahli 1-0 at King Abdullah Sports City Stadium. The stadium was full of energy, with fans cheering loudly.

The only goal came from Saleh Al Shehri in the 42nd minute. He scored while playing in place of injured star Karim Benzema, assisted by Moussa Diaby.

“We played a very good game,” said Fabinho. “I’m happy not just for the win, but for how we played and defended.” In the second half, Al Ittihad defended strongly together, knowing they had to work as a team.

Al Ittihad have scored many goals this season, but this win was thanks to their strong defense. Abdulelah Al Amri and Saad Al Mousa were excellent at the back. In one important moment, Al Amri stopped a shot from Ivan Toney, saving a certain goal. He celebrated the block as if he had scored a goal himself, and the fans cheered.

“It’s always important to keep a clean sheet (not let the other team score), especially against players like [Riyad] Mahrez, [Roberto] Firmino, and Toney,” said Fabinho. He and his teammate N’Golo Kante helped defend and support the team.

Al Ittihad are having a strong season. Last season, they finished fifth, but now they are aiming higher. So far, they have won eight of their nine games under coach Laurent Blanc. This win puts them level with Al Hilal, only behind on goal difference.

Al Hilal, the current champions, have their own derby against Al Nassr coming up. Whatever the result, Al Ittihad are in a strong position to challenge this season.

“After nine games, it’s important to be in this position,” Fabinho said. “We did our job, won our derby, and now we have a few days to rest and prepare for the next game.”

With the Jeddah derby win, Fabinho can relax and watch the other games. Smiling, he said, “The most important thing is we did our job. If Hilal doesn’t win tomorrow, that’s good. But I’ll be relaxing at home. I might watch the game. But yes, I’m happy we got the win.”