Al-Ahli is preparing for a crucial and decisive match in its Saudi Professional League campaign, as it faces its opponent in the 23rd round of the competition. The club enters this match under difficult circumstances, suffering from the absence of key players, which presents German coach Matthias Jäsle with a real challenge to find suitable solutions and maintain the team's strong performance.
Significant absences in Al Ahly's ranks
The most notable absences are those of the two key players: the solid Turkish defender Merih Demiral and the young French midfielder Enzo Millot . Demiral's absence is due to his incomplete physical and technical readiness, a significant blow to the team's defense given his vast experience and ability to lead the back line. Millot, on the other hand, will miss the match due to suspension for accumulated yellow cards, depriving the team of one of its most creative assets in midfield and his ability to link the lines and orchestrate play.
General context and importance of the match
This match comes at a crucial juncture in the season. Al-Ahli, returning to the top flight this season after a single campaign in the second division, is determined to finish in a high position to secure a place in the revamped AFC Champions League. This year's Roshan League has witnessed unprecedented competition, attracting numerous international stars thanks to substantial support from the Public Investment Fund, which has elevated the league's level and made every match feel like a final. Al-Ahli currently occupies a strong position in the standings, but any slip-up could prove costly in their fierce battle for continental qualification.
Expected impact and technical solutions
Coach Matthias Jäissle is expected to field young defender Ryan Hamed to replace Demiral, forming a defensive partnership with Brazilian Roger Ibañez. This will be a true test for Hamed to prove his abilities in such an important match. In midfield, Jäissle may rely on other players to compensate for Milot's absence, such as increasing the attacking roles of players like Franck Kessié or Gabri Vega, to ensure the team's continued attacking prowess.
Al-Ahli’s ability to overcome these absences and achieve a positive result will not only affect its position in the standings, but will also reflect the depth of its squad and the ability of the coaching staff to deal with emergencies, which is crucial in a long and difficult race like the Saudi Roshan League.
