Karim Benzema Leads Al Ittihad to Historic King's Cup Victory Over Aubameyang's Al Qadsiah

 

In a landmark achievement, Karim Benzema led Al Ittihad to a 3–1 victory over Al Qadsiah in the Saudi King's Cup final, securing the club's first domestic double in its history. Benzema's two goals were pivotal in the win, overshadowing Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang's efforts for Al Qadsiah.

The match, held at Al Enma Bank Stadium in Jeddah, saw Benzema open the scoring in the 34th minute by chesting in a cross from Steven Bergwijn. Houssem Aouar doubled the lead shortly after, capitalizing on a rebound from Benzema's header. Aubameyang narrowed the deficit with a penalty just before halftime, but Benzema sealed the victory with a stoppage-time goal, assisted by Moussa Diaby .

Al Qadsiah's hopes were further dashed when Ezequiel Fernández received a red card in the 81st minute, leaving the team with ten men. Despite Aubameyang's contributions, Al Qadsiah remains without a King's Cup title in their 58-year history .

This triumph marks Al Ittihad's 10th King's Cup title and completes a historic season under manager Laurent Blanc, having also clinched the Saudi Pro League earlier. Benzema's stellar performance throughout the season earned him the league's Player of the Season award, finishing with 21 league goals, third behind Cristiano Ronaldo and Ivan Toney.