Frenchman Karim Benzema, captain of the Ittihad team, acknowledged the difficulty of the match against Al-Nassr in the "Al-Inma" classic, confirming that their opponent was the better team during the encounter that brought the two teams together in the fourth round of the Roshen Saudi Professional League.

Ittihad fell at home and in front of their fans with a score of two goals to none, scored by Senegalese Sadio Mane and Portuguese Cristiano Ronaldo, marking the team’s first loss of the season after a strong start in the league.

Benzema said after the match: "It was a very difficult match; Al-Nassr was better than us, but no problem, the season is still in its early stages," indicating his confidence in his team's ability to recover in the future.

Regarding his physical condition after a recent injury, the French striker explained that he feels significantly better but needs more training and matches to return to full fitness and showcase his best possible level.

Ittihad currently occupies the second position in the Saudi Professional League standings with 9 points, having won the first three rounds before stumbling with a loss to Al-Nassr in the fourth round.

Ittihad is scheduled to play its next match against Al-Ahli Dubai in the second round of the group stage of the AFC Champions League, hosting the match at the Al-Inma Stadium in King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah next Tuesday evening.