DAMMAM — Al-Ittihad's struggles in the Saudi Pro League persisted as they played to a draw against Al-Khaleej in the 32nd round of the competition, officially ending their chances to compete for the third spot that qualifies for the AFC Champions League Elite. Al-Ittihad initially took the lead with a goal by Muhanad Al-Shanqeeti in the first half's stoppage time, only for the host team to equalize through Egyptian player Mohamed Sherif in the 81st minute. The match took place at the Prince Mohammad bin Fahd Stadium in Dammam. This draw brings Al-Ittihad's point total to 51, positioning them fifth in the league, while Al-Khaleej reached 37 points, officially securing their spot in the league. Adding to the post-match tensions, Al-Ittihad's coach, Argentine Marcelo Gallardo, declined to attend the post-match press conference, marking his second absence from such events recently. Media members awaited his arrival at the press conference room, but Gallardo, visibly upset by the match's outcome, did not appear. This incident follows a similar occurrence after a 3-1 loss to Abha in the league's 30th round, reflecting a challenging period for the coach amid Al-Ittihad's failure to secure a win in their last four league matches.
