Al-Ahli is set to face league leaders Al-Nassr at King Abdullah Sports City Stadium in Jeddah on January 2, 2026. This match marks a critical moment in the 2025-26 Roshn Saudi League season. Both teams are eager to bolster their standing in the league as they compete on matchday 12.
Match Preview: Al-Ahli vs Al-Nassr
Entering this fixture, Al-Ahli ranks fourth in the standings, collecting 22 points from 11 matches. Their record includes six wins, four draws, and one defeat, showcasing a strong campaign. Under head coach Matthias Jaissle, Al-Ahli has balanced league performances with cup successes, notably winning the Saudi Super Cup against Al-Nassr in August 2025.
Al-Ahli achieved a significant milestone this season, clinching their first AFC Champions League trophy after defeating Kawasaki Frontale 2-0 in the final. The team has displayed resilience in their recent matches, achieving impressive victories against Al Fayha and Al Ittihad.
Key Players for Al-Ahli
- Ivan Toney: Leading scorer with 14 goals this season.
In their last six matches across competitions, Al-Ahli has three wins, including a recent 2-0 victory over Al Fayha.
Al-Nassr: League Leaders’ Form
Al-Nassr arrives as the current league leaders, having accumulated 31 points from 11 matches without a loss. They started the season with an impressive ten-game winning streak, which was interrupted by a 2-2 draw against Al Ettifaq. Cristiano Ronaldo has played a pivotal role in their success, scoring twice in their last match against Al Okhdood.
Recent Form of Al-Nassr
- Last six league matches: 5 wins, 1 draw.
- Goals scored: 16, Goals conceded: 4.
With a potent attacking lineup, Al-Nassr aims to maintain their unbeaten streak. Their recent victories highlight their explosive offense and solid defense.
Team News
Al-Ahli will be missing key players due to international duties and suspensions. Goalkeeper Edouard Mendy, midfielder Franck Kessie, and winger Riyad Mahrez are participating in the Africa Cup of Nations. Defender Roger Ibanez is suspended, and several players have joined the U23 squad for the AFC Asian Cup.
In response, goalkeeper Abdulrahman Al Sanbi is expected to start, with Mohammed Sulaiman likely joining Merih Demiral in defense.
Al-Nassr will also face absentees, including defenders Mohamed Simakan and Saad Al-Nasser, alongside midfielder Sami Al-Najei. Sadio Mane is also unavailable due to AFCON commitments.
Possible Lineups
| Al-Ahli | Al-Nassr |
|---|---|
| Sanbi | Al-Aqidi |
| Majrashi, Demiral, Sulaiman, Hawsawi | Al-Ghannam, Martinez, Al-Amri, Nasser |
| Aljohani, Edoa, Goncalves | Brozovic, Angelo, Wesley |
| Galeno, Al-Buraikan, Toney | Coman, Felix, Ronaldo |
Match Prediction
This highly anticipated clash is expected to test Al-Ahli against the formidable Al-Nassr. Predictions suggest a 3-1 victory for Al-Nassr, given their impressive form and prolific scoring. As both teams aim for essential points, the match promises to deliver a thrilling encounter.
