MANAMA, Bahrain (Interstat) — In a stunning reversal of pregame projections, Budaiya defeated Al Najma 2-1 on Thursday afternoon in a Bahrain Premier League match at Al Ahli Stadium.

The result defied the overwhelming statistical forecasts, which heavily favored the home side. Interstat’s game simulator had projected a final score of 2-1 for Al Najma, and its ELO rating system gave Al Najma a 76.3 percent probability of victory.

Budaiya, the visiting team, seized control of the match with two goals in a decisive seven-minute span late in the first half. The breakthrough came in the 36th minute when forward Mohammed Abdul Qayoom found the net with a left-footed strike. He was followed shortly after by teammate Kablan N’Goma, who also scored with his left foot in the 43rd minute to double Budaiya’s advantage before halftime.

Al Najma, playing before its home supporters in Al-Manāmah, struggled to break down a resolute Budaiya defense for much of the contest. The home side managed to pull one goal back in the second half, setting up a tense finish, but could not complete the comeback against a disciplined Budaiya side.

The victory gives Budaiya a perfect start to its Premier League campaign, improving its record within the competition to one win and no losses. Across all competitions this season, Budaiya now holds an identical 1-0 record.

For Al Najma, the loss marks a disappointing opening to the domestic league season, leaving the club with a record of 0-1 in Premier League play. Its overall record across all competitions also falls to 0-1.

The match, organized by the Bahrain Premier League, was the first meeting of the season between the two sides and immediately upended expected form. Budaiya’s efficient first-half finishing proved the difference, capitalizing on its limited chances to build a lead it would not relinquish.

The fixture was played under clear skies at the centrally located Al Ahli Stadium, a frequent host for top-division matches in the kingdom. No further disciplinary details or attendance figures were immediately available.

The result provides Budaiya with crucial early momentum in the league standings, while Al Najma is left to regroup after a performance that fell well short of advanced statistical expectations.