Al-Ahli Club is preparing to face a crucial and anticipated match against Al-Qadisiyah, as part of the quarter-final competitions of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Cup for the 2025-2026 season, as fans of “Al-Raqui” look forward to continuing the journey towards achieving the title of “the most precious cup” that has been absent from the club’s trophy cabinet for years.
General context and importance of the tournament:
The King's Cup holds special significance in Saudi football, not only for its rich history but also because it represents a direct path to domestic glory and an opportunity to participate in continental championships. For Al-Ahli, one of the four giants of Saudi football, winning the title is a strategic objective to confirm their strong return to the podium, especially after the significant support the team has received and the acquisition of world-class players.
A significant challenge:
Despite the technical and historical advantages that might favor Al-Ahli, cup matches often hold unexpected surprises. Al-Qadisiyah enters the match with high hopes of causing an upset and eliminating one of the top contenders for the title, putting added pressure on German coach Matthias Jäsle's team to secure a victory and avoid any setback that could jeopardize their championship aspirations.
Technical stability and expected formation:
Sources indicate that coach Matthias Jäsle has largely settled on the starting lineup for the match scheduled for 8:30 PM on Friday. Jäsle aims to rely on his strongest attacking force to secure an early victory, while maintaining a balance between defense and attack.
Al Ahly's expected lineup is as follows:
- Goalkeeper: Edouard Mendy
- Defense: Ali Majrashi, Roger Ibanez, Merih Demiral, Mohammed Bakr
- Midfield: Franck Kessié, Valentin Atangana, Enzo Meo
- Attackers: Galeano, Riyad Mahrez, Firas Al-Buraikan
This formation reflects the reliance on the solidity of the back line with the duo Demiral and Ibanez, and the strength of the midfield led by Ivorian Franck Kessie, while taking advantage of the individual skills and attacking capabilities of the trio Riyad Mahrez, Galeano and Firas Al-Buraikan in the front line, which gives the team diverse solutions to penetrate the opponent’s defenses.
