Youth Showdown: Ettifaq’s Rising Star Narrowly Boosts Team Toward the Summit
27 January 2026
Match Results and Key Moments
In round 12 of the Under-21 Elite League, Ettifaq Under-21’s Jalal Al-Salem continued his breakout form as his side drew 2-2 with Al-Nasr Under-21 on Tuesday evening.
Al-Salem found the net in the 48th minute, converting a right-sided cross with a composed finish to break the deadlock.
With this goal, Al-Salem brings his tally to seven for the season, strengthening his push for the top of the scoring chart where Ammar Al-Ghamdi (Al-Ittihad) and Abdullah Al-Ajiyan (Al-Akhdood) are tied on eight.
The result leaves Ettifaq on 28 points, maintaining top spot and a two-point gap over the nearest followers, as the battle for the summit intensifies.
Meanwhile, Bassam Al-Araini of Taawon continues to lead the scoring charts with nine goals, keeping the race lively until the final whistle.
Coming up: More fixtures as the Under-21 squads chase a place at the table’s summit.
Punchline 1: If talent were a sniper rifle, these youngsters are already perched on the rooftops—deadly accurate, and still doing their algebra homework after the match.
Punchline 2: In this league, patience is a virtue—one these bright minds have mastered, even when the trophy seems to be practicing its victory pose in the mirror.
