High anticipation for a Ramadan Clasico with a global flavor
All eyes of Saudi and Arab football fans will be on the Kingdom Arena on Saturday evening, as French star Karim Benzema, the Al-Ittihad striker, prepares for a high-stakes Saudi Clasico against arch-rivals Al-Hilal. This match carries special significance as it coincides with the holy month of Ramadan, a month historically associated with Benzema's peak performances and goal-scoring prowess, raising questions about his ability to replicate that brilliance in the Al-Ittihad jersey.
Historical background: The clash of giants in Saudi football
The Al-Hilal vs. Al-Ittihad derby is one of the most prestigious and intense rivalries in the history of Saudi and Asian football. The match pits two giants against each other: Al-Hilal, the most decorated Saudi club in terms of titles, and Al-Ittihad, one of the oldest and most popular clubs, boasting a rich history of achievements. This fixture has gained a new global dimension with the influx of international stars to the Saudi Professional League, most notably Karim Benzema, the Ballon d'Or winner, thus enhancing the match's technical and marketing value and making it a matter of international interest.
Benzema and Ramadan: A special relationship of brilliance
In a recent interview, Benzema confirmed that he is accustomed to delivering outstanding performances during Ramadan, citing his long experience with his former club, Real Madrid. Football fans worldwide haven't forgotten his exceptional performance in the 2021-2022 season, which coincided with Ramadan, when he led Real Madrid to the Champions League title with his decisive goals, most notably scoring hat-tricks against Paris Saint-Germain and Chelsea while fasting. When asked about the secret to his brilliance, Benzema replied with a smile, "Because it's Ramadan," clearly indicating the positive spiritual impact the holy month has on him.
The match's impact on the league's course
This match holds immense importance for both teams in the race for the Roshan League title. Al-Hilal aims to maintain its dominance and widen the gap at the top, while Al-Ittihad, led by its star Benzema, hopes to secure a crucial morale-boosting victory that will strengthen its position in the standings and demonstrate its ability to compete with the top teams. The outcome of this derby will not only affect the three points but will also have a significant impact on the morale and confidence of the players and fans for the remainder of the season.
Religious commitment and high artistic performance
Benzema explained that fasting does not negatively affect his physical performance; on the contrary, it gives him a positive feeling and increases his focus. He said, “Ramadan is part of my life, and my religion requires me to be observant. Fasting is important to me, and I feel good when I observe it.” This statement reflects the balance Benzema has successfully achieved between his religious obligations and the demands of professionalism at the highest level, setting an inspiring example for Muslim athletes worldwide. As the Ramadan Clasico kicks off, all eyes will be on “Al-Hukuma,” waiting to see if he will add another chapter of brilliance to his already impressive record during the holy month.
