When the Whistle Wentof Chaos: Neom Thinks Penalty Should Have Been Awarded Against Al-Ittihad
31 December 2025
Match Context
In a Roshen Saudi Pro League clash, Neom hosted Al-Ittihad at King Khalid Sports City Stadium in Tabuk, with a notable moment that sparked debate among fans and pundits alike.
Referee Decision
A refereeing expert argued that Khaled Al-Treis denied Neom a clear penalty against Al-Ittihad in the 18th minute after Hassan Al-Ali was pushed by Roger Fernandes, a player from the visitors.
The expert Mohammed Kamal Risha spoke to the Saudi newspaper Al-Riyadiyah, stating that Al-Ali deserved a penalty and that the challenge warranted a spot-kick for the hosts.
Al-Ali protested vehemently, but the Saudi international referee resumed play without signaling a penalty for Neom.
The episode has ignited discussions about officiating standards in the league, with differing viewpoints on whether a penalty should have been awarded.
Punchline 1: If the referee had a whistle for every questionable call, the match would have sounded like a wind chime on a blustery day. Punchline 2: Some fans swear the ball was paying rent and decided to stay put—maybe it preferred staying in the box longer than the call did.
