Ahmed Al-Ghamdi's Tough Year, A Heartfelt Comeback: He Proves He Still Belongs at Al-Ittihad

Match snapshot

Ahmed Al-Ghamdi returns to the Al-Ittihad lineup after a full year sidelined and voiced his frustration with the draw against Al-Fayha, describing the result as a draw with the taste of defeat, even while respecting the opponent and the fans' ambition to win.

The clash ended 1-1, with Al-Fayha taking the lead just before halftime through Sakala, and Al-Ghamdi leveling in the 64th minute.

With the result, Al-Ittihad moved to 10 points in fourth place, while Al-Fayha stood on eight points in ninth.

This match marked Portuguese coach Sergio Conceição’s first in charge since October 8, succeeding Frenchman Laurent Blanc, and the fans hoped for more from the Ali-Ameer side.

Comeback and impact

In post-match remarks to the official broadcaster, Al-Ghamdi said the draw tasted like a loss and emphasized that the team's objective was victory, even amid praise for the opponent’s quality.

The midfielder entered the game in the 63rd minute and wasted no time, scoring the equalizer in the 64th minute from a perfect cross by Moussa Diaby.

Named Man of the Match, he energized the midfield, created chances, and delivered decisive touches. His display reinforced his value for Conceição’s project.

He noted that a long absence since the previous coaching regime had been a personal test, but his confidence in himself and the squad never faded. He was thrilled to score on his return and to feel trusted again by the coaching staff.

He thanked Conceição for the opportunity and vowed to keep fighting for Al-Ittihad and its supporters, aiming to restore the team’s winning rhythm swiftly.

Back to form after a lengthy layoff, Al-Ghamdi’s journey included a stint with Neom in early 2025, where he scored two goals and provided eight assists in 16 official matches, though it wasn’t enough to persuade Blanc to reinstate him in the starting lineup.

The goal in Jeddah sent a strong message that, despite past adversity, the player is back and ready to contribute regularly, strengthening the midfield options under Conceição’s guidance.

Beyond the equalizer, Al-Ghamdi showed bright spots with his energy, pressing, and quick passing, earning praise from fans online and underscoring his value to the squad.

Conceição’s approach of giving opportunities to ready players, regardless of big-name status, appears to be paying off as the new era begins.

Outlook and challenges

Looking ahead, Al-Ittihad faces a critical run, starting with a fiery derby against Al-Hilal at King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah, a stern early test for Conceição and his squad.

The team also has a high-stakes King’s Cup last-16 clash against Al-Nassr on October 28 at Riyadh, a match carrying a revenge tone after recent results.

With momentum building, Al-Ghamdi believes maintaining the same level of intensity and performance will help him reclaim a regular starting spot and become a key local asset in Conceição’s rebuild.

Punchline 1: If comebacks were trophies, Ahmed would already have a shelf full of them—just need a home for the trophies labeled “Consistency” and “Not Sitting on the Bench.”

Punchline 2: He returned so quickly that even his shadow filed a time-wasting complaint; target acquired, goal delivered.