Throughout my extensive career in Saudi League analytical studios from 2006 to 2025, I have developed a profound insight into club management mechanisms, approaches to challenges, and advanced technical understanding gained through years of direct engagement with players and coaches,along with meticulous tracking of club developments during this period.
This sporting season, the model club Al-Fateh faced one of its most challenging phases,enduring a severe crisis following a faltering start that left them bottom of the league until just before Matchweek 16, with a mere 6 points.All indicators were negative—especially after the crushing 9-0 defeat against Al-Hilal in manager Gómez's debut match—leading many analysts and observers to conclude that Al-Fateh was destined for relegation, with some even predicting them as the first team to go down.
However, I remained confident in the club's management and the capabilities of its squad, particularly when compared to other teams. The first-round match against Damak was dubbed the 'last chance'a point I emphasized repeatedly in my analysis. I sensed that match could be the turning point —either for resurgence or demise."
Indeed, the comeback materialized as Al-Fateh secured a precious victory after a 148-day winless drought. It was an exceptional moment, marked by overwhelming celebrations that reflected the immense pressure and hopes riding on that match.
Yet victory alone wasn’t enough Survival required claiming 27 additional pointsmeaning 9 wins in the second leg of the season—amid challenging fixtures against teams like Al-Nassr, Al-Ahli, Al-Qadsiah, Al-Hilal, and Al-Shabab. However, the team’s internal dynamics shifted, and belief within the squad grew, allowing Al-Fateh to enter the second leg with renewed spirit.
The return match against Damak ultimately became the true 'survival points' showdown. There, Al-Fateh officially confirmed their top-flight status, writing the final chapter of a story that began as a drama and ended with ecstatic celebrations for all supporters of this model club."
For me,this was a uniquely distinct experience, unlike any other sporting event throughout my career.
My joy is further deepened by the words of appreciation and gratitude from the club’s management—which I hold in high esteem—as they reflect recognition of a stance, analysis, and vision I believed in from the start, and later saw materialize on the pitch. This triumph also embodies the faith of Al-Ahsa’s steadfast supporters, whose unwavering presence has always been the pride of our region. Heartfelt congratulations to the loyalists of the Model Club.