All eyes of Saudi and Arab football fans are on the Jeddah derby, the classic clash between the city's two giants, Al-Ahli and Al-Ittihad, in the 25th round of the Saudi Professional League. As the match draws near, anticipation and anxiety are mounting in both camps, not only because of its importance in the race for top positions, but also because of the looming threat of suspension for four of the teams' star players, who could miss this major football event.
General context and historical background of the event
The Jeddah derby is one of the oldest and fiercest rivalries in Saudi football history. The competition between the two clubs spans decades and holds unforgettable memories for their fans. More than just three points, the match represents a battle for supremacy in the coastal city, always characterized by intense passion and fierce competition on the pitch, and unparalleled fan enthusiasm in the stands. With the significant development of the Saudi Professional League and its attraction of international stars, the derby has gained even greater importance, becoming a focal point for fans worldwide.
The threat of absence disrupts Al-Ahly's plans
At Al-Ahli, German coach Matthias Jäissle is facing a dilemma ahead of the team's upcoming match against Al-Riyadh in the 24th round. Two of his key players are at risk of suspension: veteran Ivorian midfielder Franck Kessié and Brazilian striker Matheus Gonçalves . Both players have accumulated three yellow cards, and any further caution in the Al-Riyadh match will mean certain absence from the derby. Kessié is a cornerstone of the midfield thanks to his vast experience and ability to link defense and attack, while Gonçalves is a significant attacking threat. This situation presents Jäissle with a difficult tactical dilemma: whether to field them to secure a victory and the three points, or to rest them to avoid suspension and risk jeopardizing the outcome of the match.
The federation faces the same dilemma
The situation is not much different in Al-Ittihad's camp, where the "Dean" faces the same worrying scenario. Two influential players in the squad, Algerian Houssem Aouar and his teammate Mamdouh Doumbia , are threatened with suspension before their crucial match against Al-Khaleej. Both players have accumulated three yellow cards, forcing them to play with extreme caution to avoid any contact that could result in a fourth booking, ruling them out of the derby. The absence of either of them would be a significant blow to the team, given their vital role in maintaining the team's balance. The coach will have to make a crucial decision regarding their participation to preserve his full attacking force against Al-Ahli.
The importance of the event and its expected impact
The importance of the derby extends far beyond the city of Jeddah, as its outcome directly impacts the competitive landscape of the Saudi Professional League, particularly in the race for AFC Champions League qualification. The absence of any of these four key players will not only affect the teams' performance but will also diminish the match's appeal and the high level of play that fans eagerly anticipate. With the competition intensifying in the crucial stages of the season, yellow card counts have become as important as tactical strategies, adding another layer of excitement and anticipation before the opening whistle of one of the most important matches of the Saudi football season.
