Ivan Toney Mocks Jamal Harkass's Kiss Gesture in Saudi Pro League Drama
English striker Ivan Toney found himself at the center of a bizarre on-field incident following Al-Ahli's dramatic 1-0 victory over Damac in the Saudi Pro League. The 29-year-old forward was involved in a late confrontation with Damac defender Jamal Harkass that escalated into an unusual exchange of gestures and post-match social media banter.
VAR Drama Sparks Heated Exchange
The flashpoint occurred in the 94th minute when Damac believed they had equalized through striker Yakou Meite, only for the goal to be disallowed after a lengthy VAR review. As emotions ran high following the overturned decision, Harkass appeared to make repeated kissing gestures toward Toney during their heated exchange on the pitch.
Toney responded with characteristic composure, laughing in his opponent's face and continuing to celebrate his team's impending victory. The former Brentford striker remained unbothered throughout the unusual confrontation, maintaining his smile and celebratory demeanor as the Moroccan defender leaned forward multiple times.
Social Media Jab Caps Off Controversial Moment
After the final whistle confirmed Al-Ahli's narrow victory, Toney took to social media to share a clip of the incident with a cheeky caption. Alongside a vomiting emoji, he wrote: "I've never smelt a breath so bad," adding a humorous twist to the already dramatic encounter.
Match Full of VAR Controversies
The game had been filled with VAR drama from the beginning. Damac thought they had taken an early lead, only for that goal to be canceled as well. Toney himself experienced disappointment when he had a goal ruled out for offside after neatly lobbing goalkeeper Kewin earlier in the match.
The breakthrough finally came in the 37th minute when former AC Milan and Barcelona midfielder Franck Kessie scored from close range following a set piece. This solitary goal proved decisive as Al-Ahli held firm during a tense finish that included multiple VAR interventions.
League Implications and Player Performance
The victory proved crucial in the title race, pushing Al-Ahli one point clear at the top of the Saudi Pro League table, ahead of Cristiano Ronaldo's Al-Nassr. Meanwhile, Damac remained stuck in the relegation zone with just 15 points from 23 matches.
Toney has enjoyed a spectacular individual season, scoring 23 goals in 22 league appearances while adding five assists. The English striker has formed a formidable attacking partnership with Riyad Mahrez and Edouard Mendy, contributing significantly to Al-Ahli's title challenge.
Al-Ahli will return to action on Thursday when they travel to face Al-Riyadh, looking to maintain their position at the summit of the Saudi Pro League standings.
