Mohau Nkota scores on sensational Saudi Pro League debut

South African starlet Mohau Nkota is off to a spectacular start to life in Saudi Arabia, earning the start and opening the scoring on his debut in Al Ettifaq’s 2-1 win over Al Kholood on Thursday evening.

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الاتفاق يتقدم بالهدف الاول ✅🔥

الاتفاق 1-0 الخلود pic.twitter.com/CT1LNweJ46

— بيسون (@koor_beson) August 28, 2025

The signing from Orlando Pirates became the first South African to score in the Saudi Pro League when he fired in a low effort to give hosts Ettifaq the lead in the 7th minute. Nkota played the full ninety minutes as Georginio Wijnaldum won it for the club in the second half with a 61st minute match winner after Kholood equalized before halftime.

Many questioned the decision of Nkota to make the big money move to Saudi Arabia rather than pursue a move to European club football. However, if the 20-year-old continues to earn regular playing time it may actually be a very astute career decision that will eventually lead to the European move that his supporters desire.

Nkota was named in South Africa’s squad for upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying clashes against Lesotho and Nigeria, the second of which is a crucial match for the World Cup hopes of both nations. The pacey young forward, with two appearances to date for Bafana Bafana, could be an impact player for coach Hugo Broos either from the start or as a substitute.

Al Ettifaq next face Asian champions Al Ahli after the international break on September 12.

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