Troost-Ekong scores an own goal in Al Kholood defeat
Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong had a difficult outing on Thursday, scoring an own goal in Al Kholood’s 3-2 home loss against Neom in the Saudi First Division League.
The match began at a frantic pace, with Al Kholood seizing an early advantage when Kévin N’Doram found the net just five minutes after kickoff.
However, their lead was short-lived, as NEOM SC’s Saïd Benrahma provided an immediate response, levelling the score in the eighth minute.
Disaster struck for the home side just after the half-hour mark. In the 32nd minute, Troost-Ekong inadvertently deflected the ball into his own net, handing the visitors a 2-1 lead heading into the break.
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Benrahma compounded Al Kholood’s problems in the second half, securing his brace in the 66th minute to extend NEOM’s lead to 3-1.
Although Ramiro Enrique managed to pull a goal back for the hosts in the 82nd minute, a late surge was not enough to overcome NEOM’s determined defence.
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This result marks Al Kholood’s second consecutive loss and their fourth defeat in seven matches this season, leaving the Ar Rass-based club in ninth place on the league table.
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Despite the unfortunate own goal, Troost-Ekong put in a strong defensive shift, winning all of his tackles and ground duels while making six clearances.
Al Kholood will look to halt their slide when they travel to face Al Qadsiah FC on November 6th, hoping to avoid a third straight league defeat.
