A second-half strike from Brazil’s Vitinho salvaged a point for Al-Ettifaq as they dropped points for the first time this season.
Despite having fewer resources than their rivals, Steven Gerrard’s Al-Ettifaq had an unexpected start to their Saudi Pro League campaign.
The Commandos earned a surprising 2-1 comeback victory over Al-Nassr in their opening game of the season two weeks ago.
A convincing 2-0 victory over Al-Hazm followed days later as goals from Robin Quaison and Vitinho extended Al-Ettifaq’s winning start.
However, their momentum took a hit on Thursday against Al-Khaleej as they struggled to find their rhythm in a difficult encounter.
Al-Ettifaq were stunned after 26 minutes as the visitors took a shock lead through Portugal’s Fabio Martins, who skipped past defenders before rifling the ball into the roof of the net.
Jordan Henderson and co were unable to create opportunities going forward and former Lyon forward Mousse Dembele was often isolated and not finding the needed service upfront.
Meanwhile, the visitors looked threatening on the break and utilised the speed of both Mohamed Sherif and goalscorer Martins to their advantage.
In the second half, Al-Ettifaq were awarded a free-kick in a promising position as Vitinho stepped up and unleashed a powerful drive that went under the wall and into the back of the net to grab the equaliser after 50 minutes.
Dembele had his first sight on goal two minutes later and had a glorious chance to get the lead but his volleyed attempt went wide from close range.
Their best chance of the game came in stoppage time when late substitute Ahmed Al-Ghamdi cut inside and struck the ball with venom into the bottom corner but Al-Khaleej goalkeeper Ibrahim Šehić pulled off an important save to deny the Saudi midfielder.
An improved performance saw Al-Ettifaq get closer to finding their second but Al-Khaleej managed to hold on and get a point after a strong defensive display.