Future Falcons managed to secure a late draw against their guests, Benfica, with both teams scoring twice in Al Abtal Cup Group D match. This result came to pass following a determined Future Falcons comeback from being two goals down in the match.
The match got off to an even start, with the Saudi team putting in a strong performance in the opening minutes of the game. However, Benfica quickly began to dominate possession and build pressure on their opponents until they opened the scoring in the 17th minute through Ferreyra, who pounced on a low cross from the right side to score the opening goal of the match. In the 27th minute, the Portuguese team extended their lead to 2-0 after some beautiful link up play from Tomi, bringing the first half to an end with Benfica leading by two goals to nil.
At the start of the second half, the Future Falcons attempted to push forward, striving to narrow the gap and creating several chances in the process. However, a lack of composure in front of goal prevented the Saudi strikers from scoring. At the same time, Benfica were pushing to score their third goal, focusing their attacks down the wings and delivering dangerous crosses into the penalty area.
In the 84th minute, however, the Saudi team’s efforts paid off as they were awarded a penalty, successfully converted by Thamer Almousa, narrowing the lead and leading to a tense finale to the match. Two minutes after pulling a goal back the Future Falcons were among the goals again when substitute Meshari Al Oufi leveled the score with an excellent free-kick, meaning the match ended in a 2-2 draw. With this result, Benfica moved up to four points, leading Group D, while the Future Falcons earned their first point in the group.
