On a night of intense football action, the Saudi Clasico between Al-Hilal and Al-Ittihad, a highlight of the 23rd round of the 2023-2024 Saudi Professional League, witnessed a pivotal moment: the early dismissal of Al-Ittihad defender Hassan Kadash. This red card was not just a routine expulsion, but the first of the player's long professional career, adding a dramatic dimension to the match, which was held on the "Foundation Day Round.".
Background and importance of the Saudi Clasico
The "Clásico" between Al-Hilal and Al-Ittihad is one of the most prestigious and intense rivalries in the history of Saudi and Asian football. This encounter, which pits two giants of Saudi football against each other from Riyadh and Jeddah, always carries a special competitive edge due to their long history of competing for domestic and continental titles. Both teams enter each match with motivations that go far beyond simply securing three points; the game represents a battle to prove their superiority and win over their passionate fans. This season, the match has taken on added significance as Al-Hilal seeks to solidify their lead and extend their title hopes, while Al-Ittihad, the defending champions, strive to close the gap and cling to their championship aspirations.
Details of the parcel and its direct impact
The match had barely begun when the referee was forced to show a straight red card to Hassan Kadash in the seventh minute, following a tackle he deemed violent. This early decision forced Al-Ittihad, nicknamed "The Dean," to play over 80 minutes of the derby with only ten men, a devastating blow to the plans of Argentine coach Marcelo Gallardo. Al-Hilal quickly capitalized on this numerical advantage, dominating the game and scoring the opening goal just minutes after the dismissal, putting Al-Ittihad in a very precarious position from the outset.
A historic moment in Kadesh's career
Aside from its impact on the match result, this red card marked a negative and personal record for defender Hassan Kadache. The 31-year-old, who has enjoyed a long professional career, had never before received a straight red card in 290 official matches played for various clubs. During this long career, Kadache had only accumulated 30 yellow cards, reflecting his otherwise excellent disciplinary record as a defender. For his first red card to come in such a crucial and sensitive match makes it an exceptional event that will remain etched in the player's memory and in the history of El Clásico.
