RIYADH — In an exhilarating conclusion to the Second Division league, Neom FC clinched their promotion to the First Division with one round remaining, after a thrilling 3-2 victory over hosts Al Zulfi.
The decisive match, held at Al Zulfi's stadium, drew a sizable crowd of supporters from both teams, adding to the intense atmosphere on the field. Neom's triumph boosted their points to 65, surpassing Al Zulfi's 60 points. Despite initially trailing 2-1, Neom mounted a remarkable comeback, ultimately securing victory and their spot in the coveted First Division.
Neom's goals, scored by Tiago at the 32nd and 79th minutes, along with Sultan Al-Sawadi's decisive goal at the 82nd minute, showcased the team's resilience and determination. Al Zulfi, displaying their competitive spirit, netted goals through Goulier and Mashari Al-Anzi, contributing to an action-packed and fiercely contested match overseen by international referee Mohammed Al-Houish.
This triumph solidifies Neom's position alongside Al Jubail, who secured promotion in the previous round, setting the stage for an exciting final match between the two teams. Meanwhile, Al Zulfi is poised to face off against Al Diriyah for the third and fourth positions, with the victor also earning promotion to the First Division in the upcoming season.
Neom Sports Club, formerly known as Al Suqor Club and established in 1965 in Tabuk as a football club, has a rich history of nurturing talent, with notable players like Fahd Abu Jaber, Saud Al Khaibari, and Mohammed Al Shamrani emerging from its ranks. The club has expanded its scope to encompass 13 different sports, offering inclusive opportunities for men, women, and children of all ages.
In December of the previous year, Neom announced the rebranding of Al Suqor Sports Club to Neom Sports Club following its acquisition. This strategic move aligns with Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman's vision to develop a thriving sports sector and encourage private sector involvement, marking a significant step in the evolution of Neom's sporting legacy.
