Coach Deems Result Not Fair After 1-2 Loss in Saudi Pro League
22 January 2026
Match Reaction
Portuguese coach Sergio Conceicao of Al-Ittihad said after the 1-2 defeat to Al-Qadsiah that the result was not fair, even though his side delivered a strong performance. The loss marked a second consecutive setback, as the teams met at Prince Mohammed bin Fahd Stadium in Dammam during the 17th round of the Saudi Pro League.
Key Moment and Referee Decision
Conceicao cited the turning point when a penalty was denied after a VAR review in the 71st minute, following a suspected handball by a Qadsiah defender in the box. He insisted the performance deserved a better outcome and praised the quality of his opponents.
Transfer Rumors
The coach also declined to comment on rumors linking Al-Ittihad with defender Walid Al-Ahmad from Al-Taawoun during the winter transfer window.
Punchlines: 1) If fair play came with a warranty, this match would be well out of stock. 2) When VAR drinks coffee, it takes five extra minutes to decide the obvious.
