Iraqi international Ibrahim Bayesh , midfielder for Al-Riyadh FC, expressed his delight at his team's draw against Al-Hilal, the Saudi Pro League leaders, emphasizing that this point felt like a victory given the circumstances and the intense competition. Bayesh's comments came after the match, which was part of the 18th round of the competition and was held at Prince Faisal bin Fahd Stadium in Al-Malaz.
Background of the confrontation and the importance of the result
This draw comes amidst an exceptional season for Al-Hilal, who sit atop the league standings with an undefeated record and a winning streak, boasting a formidable squad of world-class stars. Meanwhile, Al-Riyadh, recently promoted back to the Pro League, are striving to establish themselves and accumulate as many points as possible to secure their place in the top flight. Therefore, securing a point against league leaders Al-Hilal is a significant achievement for the "Central School" (Al-Riyadh's nickname), reflecting the high fighting spirit with which the team entered the match.
In his exclusive statements to “Al-Midan Al-Riyadi”, Baish said: “Al-Hilal is definitely a great team, and today’s draw is like a victory for us. We played a high-level tactical match, and we will focus during the coming period on improving the results and building on this positive spirit.”.
Baish's future and transfer offers
Baish's comments weren't limited to the technical aspects of the match; he also addressed his future with the club, revealing interest from other clubs. He explained, "I received several offers recently, but the club president has definitively refused to let me leave.".
Baish attributed the club's decision to its technical assessment of his importance to the team, adding, "The reason is the club president's belief that I can play in more than one position and contribute to the team, and the idea of me leaving is not on the table for him at the moment." This insistence by Al-Riyadh's management on retaining the Iraqi player reflects his significant technical value and pivotal role in the coach's plans, especially given his ability to play as a winger, playmaker, and midfielder, which gives the team great tactical flexibility.
Expected impact of the result
Domestically, this result provides a huge morale boost for Al-Riyadh's players and fans, and could be a turning point in their season as they move away from the relegation zone. As for Al-Hilal, while the setback didn't cost them the top spot, it serves as a warning that the Roshan League is not just about big names. Regionally, the performance of players like Ibrahim Bayesh highlights the potential of Arab talent to shine in the strongest leagues in the region, further cementing his reputation as one of the most prominent Iraqi players playing professionally abroad.
