Saudi Pro League: Partey impresses in first Al Shabab start in 3-3 draw

Al Shabab drew 3-3 with Al Riyadh in the Saudi Pro League on Tuesday, with Thomas Partey making his first start for the club. The Ghana midfielder was replaced at half-time after an influential opening 45 minutes.

Partey had only made his Al Shabab debut as a substitute on Saturday, but he was quickly moved into the starting line-up for the meeting with Al Riyadh. His brief appearance showed a strong level of involvement in the centre of the pitch.

The 33-year-old had 46 touches and completed 30 of his 34 passes, giving him an 88 per cent passing accuracy. He also delivered every cross successfully and won all of his aerial duels.

Partey’s defensive work was also prominent. He won five of seven duels, made three tackles and produced three clearances. His distribution included seven passes into the final third, while he created two chances before leaving the match.

His withdrawal came with Al Shabab and Al Riyadh level in an encounter that eventually finished 3-3. The draw meant Al Shabab could not turn Partey’s positive individual contribution into a victory, although his display offered an early indication of his influence after arriving in Saudi Arabia.

Partey joined Al Shabab from Villarreal earlier this month and is expected to be important for Ghana in the upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign. The Black Stars face Côte d’Ivoire on September 23 before hosting The Gambia on September 27.

Ghana are seeking a return to the continental tournament after missing the 2025 edition. Partey’s early involvement and performance for his new club provide a timely boost ahead of those qualifiers, despite his first Al Shabab start ending at the interval.