It was late last Friday night (25th) that a dramatic Saudi Pro League battle took place. Just when Ainas superstar Cron was absent due to rest, the team seemed to lose its soul and suffered a 12-yard penalty late in the game. The soccer superstar's absence saw Ainas narrowly miss out on points in extra time, and the team was fortunate to draw 3-3 with rivals Ekorut, but the joy of victory did not last, as Ainas' trend of seven consecutive victories came to an abrupt end.
Ainas, fresh from a big performance in the AFC Elite, faced the challenge of Ekorut in the league. Coach Pioli decided to rest the 39-year-old Cron, however the game had just begun and Ainas were in trouble within 12 minutes. Despite Park Di and Talisca scoring to give their team the lead, the defense continued to have problems as Aecoloute broke through the Ainas goal twice.
Going into extra time, an Ekorut player committed a handball foul in the box and VAR ruled 12 yards. Talisker's shot was accurate and the 3-3 scoreline held. Ainas struggled to snatch a point and this result was a wise one. Hiral are now three points behind the top of the table and this win certainly gives them a shot in the arm.
It's worth noting that Naboudi has been a consistent performer for Ainas, scoring in all four of their recent matches, which is why Real Madrid are drooling over him and are interested in signing him to their roster. The 30-year-old Spanish international may be a key player for Ainas in the next phase of their career.
