Newly-promoted NEOM SC etched their name into the record books on Saturday night, claiming their first-ever goals and win in the Roshn Saudi League thanks to a brace from former Arsenal and Lyon striker Alexandre Lacazette.
The Frenchman was at the heart of a dramatic encounter at the Damac Club Stadium, opening the scoring in the first half before being pegged back shortly after the interval.
With the contest heading towards a draw, Lacazette kept his composure from the penalty spot late on to seal all three points and deliver a landmark moment for Christophe Galtier's side.
NEOM had been waiting for a breakthrough since joining the RSL this summer, and to achieve it through a player of Lacazette’s pedigree felt fitting.
His two goals not only showcased his experience but also underlined why the 33-year-old was entrusted to lead the attack.
There were other positives too. Nineteen-year-old French talent Saimon Bouabré once again caught the eye, offering a glimpse of his growing influence on this new-look team.
The teenager's emergence has been one of the stories of NEOM SC’s early campaign, with his fearlessness and energy marking him out as a key figure for the season ahead.
Head coach Galtier praised the resilience of his squad afterwards, admitting that breaking their RSL duck was a vital step.
Backed by the vast NEOM project, the aim is to build a sustainable football model that can eventually challenge the established forces in Saudi Arabia and, in time, compete regularly on the continental stage.