Al-Ittihad extended their unbeaten run in the Saudi Roshn League with a 2-1 victory over Al-Fayha on Tuesday at Al-Inma Stadium in Jeddah. The win marked the club's fourth triumph in six matches, keeping them firmly in the title race with 14 points, just one behind leaders Al-Hilal and Al-Qadsiah.
Head coach Jens Wissing revealed that his squad's physical condition was tested by the quick turnaround following their 2-1 triumph over Al-Nassr only three days earlier. The German tactician acknowledged that managing fixture congestion remains a significant challenge for his side. "It was not an easy encounter, coming days after a difficult encounter against Al-Nassr," Wissing told reporters after the match. "We made a big effort that affected us in the encounter."
Tactical Adjustments and En-Nesyri's Impact
Wissing's second-half substitution proved decisive when Moroccan striker Youssef En-Nesyri came off the bench to score the winning goal. The coach explained his reasoning for the tactical change, emphasizing En-Nesyri's dual contribution both offensively and defensively. "I was convinced that we were capable of scoring, and also because of his ability to track back defensively," Wissing stated. The first-half display saw Al-Ittihad create opportunities but fail to capitalize, though the team showed marked improvement after the interval.
Wijnaldum Signing and Squad Depth Strategy
Wissing also addressed the recent free-transfer acquisition of Dutch midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum from Al-Ettifaq, dismissing concerns that the signing did not address immediate positional needs. The coach prioritizes versatility over rigid positional fit, viewing Wijnaldum as a strategic addition rather than a specialist wide player. "What matters to me is a player who plays in more than one slot, whether on the flank or between the lines," he explained. Wissing praised the 34-year-old's intelligence, hunger, and leadership qualities, describing him as both a wonderful player and personality who can operate effectively across multiple roles in the Saudi top flight's demanding schedule.
With their demanding fixture list requiring regular rotation, Al-Ittihad's depth and adaptability will prove crucial as the season progresses and the Roshn League title race intensifies.
