The referee's decision in the Al-Ahli vs. Al-Khaleej match sparked widespread controversy in Saudi sports circles, particularly regarding the demands of Al-Ahli players and fans for a penalty kick to be awarded during the intense match between the two teams, as part of the seventeenth round of the Roshan Professional League competition, which was held at Al-Inma Stadium.
In this context, Jordanian refereeing expert, Ahmed Abu Khadija, settled the controversy in exclusive statements to Al-Midan Al-Riyadi newspaper, confirming that Al-Ahly club was not entitled to a penalty kick in that incident which many observers were focusing on.
Details of the arbitration case and the expert's opinion
Abu Khadija explained the technical situation very clearly, pointing out that Al-Ahli defender Roger Ibanez kicked the ball, which then struck the back of Al-Khaleej player Saeed Al-Hamsal, directly. The refereeing expert clarified that the ball did not touch the defender's hand, and there was no deliberate action or unnatural body positioning, making the referee's decision to allow play to continue and not award a penalty completely correct and in accordance with the Laws of the Game and their latest amendments approved by FIFA.
Match context and result
This controversial situation comes at a crucial point in the match, with Al-Khaleej leading 1-0 thanks to a goal by professional player Masouras, who capitalized on a golden opportunity and skillfully converted the ball past goalkeeper Abdulrahman Al-Sanbi. Al-Ahli is striving to equalize and continue their winning streak and climb the league table.
The importance of the match and its impact on the league race
This match is of paramount importance to both teams, as the Saudi Professional League (Roshan League) is witnessing unprecedented competition and tremendous qualitative development this season, especially after the international signings that have bolstered the clubs' ranks. Al-Ahli is one of the four pillars of Saudi football, and any slip-up, whether a loss or a draw, will directly and mathematically impact its chances of competing for the title or securing a qualifying spot for the AFC Champions League.
On the other hand, Al Khaleej Club is presenting remarkable levels and significant tactical development, trying to secure its position in the safe zone in the middle of the table and move away early from the relegation battles, which makes winning the three points against a team the size of Al Ahli a great moral and technical achievement that is credited to the technical staff and players.
Refereeing and video technology under scrutiny
It is worth noting that refereeing decisions in the Saudi League are now subject to close scrutiny and intense media coverage both locally and internationally, given the league's current global following. While Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology plays a crucial role in minimizing impactful errors, subjective decisions remain a constant source of discussion among analysts and fans on social media platforms after the final whistle of each round.
