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William Troost-Ekong’s debut for Al Kholood in the Saudi Pro League was set to be the perfect start to his new chapter in the Middle East.
After completing a successful one-year stint with Greek club PAOK, the Nigerian international quickly established himself as a key figure in the Al Kholood defence.
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In their opening game against a star-studded Al Ittihad, Troost-Ekong led a resilient defensive line that frustrated the visitors’ top-class talents including Fabinho, N’Golo Kanté and Karim Benzema.
Al Kholood, who earned their place in the Pro League after a remarkable rise from the First Division League (FDL) last season, looked an ideal match for their more illustrious opponents.
For most of the match, Troost-Ekong and his fellow defenders held firm, stifling wave after wave of Al Ittihad attacks. It looked as though Al Kholood were on the verge of securing a stunning point in their first ever top-flight game.
However, the dream of a dream debut was shattered in the dying moments of the match. Just as the final whistle blew, Al Ittihad’s Houssem Aouar found a rare gap in the Al Kholood defence and scored a heartbreaking winner, leaving Troost-Ekong and his teammates empty-handed.
Despite the disappointing finish, Al Kholood’s performance was a promising indication of their potential in the Saudi Pro League.
With Troost-Ekong’s experience gained from spells at Udinese, Watford, Salernitana and Gent, Al Kholood can be optimistic about how to face the challenges of next season.
Al Kholood’s next match will be against Al Riyadh on August 29, as they look to pick up their first points in the top flight. With Troost-Ekong at the heart of their defence, Al Kholood will be hoping to bounce back from the narrow defeat and continue their path to success in the league.
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