The top match of the 13th round of the Saudi Professional League, between Al-Ahli and Al-Nassr, garnered unprecedented global media attention. Major international newspapers and sports websites highlighted Al-Nassr's 3-2 defeat to their arch-rivals, Al-Ahli, despite the presence of their Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo. This attention reflects the growing prominence of the Saudi league on the global sports map, particularly with the participation of a host of international football stars.
In the thrilling encounter on Friday evening, Al-Ahli inflicted Al-Nassr's first defeat of the season, ending the latter's long winning streak and igniting the title race early in the competition. This result leaves Al-Nassr stuck on 31 points, jeopardizing their lead, especially with their arch-rival Al-Hilal lurking just two points behind and with a game in hand that could drastically alter the standings.
The world press reacted to El Clásico
The defeat of Ronaldo's teammates did not go unnoticed in the international press. The Brazilian newspaper "ge" focused on the event, noting that Al-Ahli had brilliantly overcome Al-Nassr's star-studded squad, inflicting Cristiano Ronaldo's first loss in the tournament. Meanwhile, the website "Post United" considered Al-Ahli's victory a "valuable win" that could prove costly for Al-Nassr, potentially costing them the top spot.
In a related development, TNT Sports headlined its coverage with striking language, emphasizing the end of Al-Nassr's winning streak of ten matches and one victory, noting that the start of the year had brought an unpleasant surprise for the yellow team. ESPN also analyzed the implications of this loss, warning that Al-Nassr's position at the top of the standings is now genuinely threatened for the first time this season.
Demiral's brilliance and regional dimension
Regionally and internationally, the Turkish press had a prominent presence in covering the event. The newspaper "AASport" praised Turkish defender Merih Demiral, emphasizing his heroic role in leading Al-Ahli to victory. The newspaper highlighted his decisive goal, which ended the league leaders' unbeaten run, underscoring the impact of international professionals in deciding major matches in the Saudi League.
The impact of the result on the competition
This match confirms that the Roshan League is no longer just a local competition, but has transformed into a global arena of competition, attracting attention from Brazil to Turkey and from Europe to America. Al-Ahli's victory, bringing them to 25 points and fourth place, and reducing the gap with the leader to 6 points, redraws the map of the competition and confirms that the battle for the title will not be easy. The return of "Al-Raqui" (Al-Ahli) to strong competition adds more excitement and competitiveness to one of the strongest leagues in the Arab and Asian region.
