MANAMA, Bahrain (Interstat) — Al Khaldiya SC opened its domestic season with a 2-1 victory over Sitra on Sunday, overcoming an early deficit in a match where it was a statistical underdog. The visitors struck first when Mahdi Abduljabbar scored in the 23rd minute at Stād Al Bahrayn Al Watanī. Al Khaldiya responded immediately, with Gleison equalizing just two minutes later. Othman Al Haj netted the decisive goal for the hosts just before halftime. The result defied projections, as statistical models heavily favored Sitra to win. With the victory, Al Khaldiya begins its Bahrain Premier League campaign with a win, while Sitra starts with a loss.