Introduction
Al Ittihad is one of the most successful soccer teams in the Middle East and is based in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Established in 1927, the team has a rich history and has achieved numerous milestones. This article provides an overview of Al Ittihad’s top rivals, their success, notable achievements, famous players, highest goal scorers, and includes a FAQs section and a conclusion.
Comparing Top Rivals
Rival | Head-to-Head Record (Wins) |
---|---|
Al Hilal | 18 |
Al Nassr | 15 |
Al Ahli | 12 |
Team Successes and Top Achievements to Date
Al Ittihad has a long list of accomplishments, both nationally and internationally. Some of their top achievements include:
National League Championships
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- Saudi Professional League: 8 titles (1957, 1979, 1982, 1997, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2007)
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- Saudi First Division: 1 title (1993)
Continental Success
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- AFC Champions League: 2 titles (2004, 2005)
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- AFC Cup: 1 title (2009)
Other Achievements
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- Saudi Crown Prince Cup: 9 titles
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- Saudi King’s Cup: 4 titles
Team’s Most Famous Players
Al Ittihad has produced some iconic players who have left a lasting impact on the team’s history. Some of the team’s most famous players include:
Mohamed Noor
With his astonishing dribbling skills and precision passing, Mohamed Noor is considered one of the greatest Saudi Arabian footballers of all time. He played for Al Ittihad for most of his career and won numerous titles with the team.
Mohamed Abd Al-Jawad
Known for his extraordinary goalkeeping abilities, Mohamed Abd Al-Jawad was a key player for Al Ittihad during the 1990s. He helped the team win several championships, making crucial saves that earned him a place in the hearts of Al Ittihad supporters.
Talal Al-Meshal
Talal Al-Meshal is another notable player in Al Ittihad’s history. His agility and speed on the pitch made him a threat to defenders. His contributions were crucial in winning both national and international contests for the team.
Highest Goal Scorers
The top goal scorers in Al Ittihad’s history are:
Mohammad Al Sahlawi
With an impressive record of 146 goals in official matches, Mohammad Al Sahlawi is regarded as the all-time leading goal scorer for Al Ittihad. He played for the team from 2009 to 2018 and continues to be a legendary figure in the club’s history.
Haji Safi
Haji Safi, an Iranian footballer, holds the second-highest goal-scoring record in Al Ittihad. During his time at the club (2011-2017), he scored 42 goals, making him a standout player.
Saleh Al-Yami
Saleh Al-Yami, a former Al Ittihad player, ranks third on the list of highest goal scorers. He netted 39 goals for the team during his tenure, securing crucial victories in important matches.
FAQs
1. When was Al Ittihad established?
Al Ittihad was established in 1927, making it one of the oldest football clubs in Saudi Arabia.
2. How many national league championships has Al Ittihad won?
Al Ittihad has won the Saudi Professional League eight times and the Saudi First Division once.
3. How many AFC Champions League titles has Al Ittihad won?
Al Ittihad has clinched the AFC Champions League trophy twice, in 2004 and 2005.
Conclusion
Al Ittihad has enjoyed immense success over the years, both domestically and internationally. With a strong roster of players and a passionate fan base, the team continues to strive for excellence. Al Ittihad’s rivalry with teams like Al Hilal and Al Nassr is fierce, adding excitement to the football scene in Saudi Arabia. As the club moves forward, it aims to build on its success and contribute to the growth of football in the region.