There was drama on Thursday, and it came with an added touch of brilliance in the form of a stoppage-time winner from Al Kholood winger Abdulaziz Al-Aliwa, who fired home to give the underdogs a 2-1 victory against Al-Shabab in the Saudi Pro League. The late heroics from the 21-year-old showed how quickly he is cementing his place in the league and signalled that Saudi Arabia has more of their golden football generation arriving.
Abdulaziz Al-Aliwa’s rise to prominence
AL-Aliwa was born on February 11, 2004, in Al-Kharj, Saudi Arabia, and came through the youth ranks at Al-Nassr. He began his pro career in 2023 and slowly built a reputation for his agility, speed, and knack for gutting the opposition’s wing. He moved to Al Kholood in 2025 with the hope of regular playing time and showcasing his talent in the top flight following a quick loan move to Al-Ettifaq during the 2024–25 season. This latest showing proves he is more than capable of influencing the game at key times.It was a closely fought contest in the Saudi Pro League. In the 61st minute, Al-Shabab went ahead when Yannick Carrasco converted a penalty, giving the hosts hope of snatching a late win. But, Al Kholood were quick to reply with Ramiro Enrique scoring in the 48th minute to draw the match level. The tension in the game continued right until the final whistle, when their moment came through Abdulaziz Al-Aliwa, finding the net in the 90th minute for a dramatic and memorable 2-1 club victory. Fans and analysts alike lauded his coolness and timing in the dying seconds of the game.
Impact and future prospects
Another name that will make his mark in the history of the Saudi Pro League is Al-Aliwa, who bagged three precious points for Al Kholood with the winning goal against Al-Shabab. It’s an ability of someone who is set to face a long and productive career ahead of them, and in the near future, his displays will be drawing interest from bigger sides both domestically and internationally. A young talent who can make a difference in crucial moments definitely gives Al Kholood hope for a stronger attacking performance in the league.Also Read: “Benzema Will Be Ready”: Blanc Confirms Al Ittihad Striker’s Return for Al Nassr ClashWith this breakthrough, Abdulaziz Al-Aliwa is gradually transforming from a promising prospect into a recognized star in Saudi football, proving that determination, skill, and a sense for the dramatic can turn any young player into a hero.
