Serbian goalkeeper Predrag Rajkovic, of Al-Ittihad, expressed his complete satisfaction and pride in his team's performance in the derby against arch-rivals Al-Hilal, emphasizing that the players delivered a great match and deserved the positive result. In exclusive statements to Al-Midan after the match, Rajkovic stressed that the fighting spirit was the most prominent characteristic of "The Tigers" on the pitch.
Rajkovic said: “We fought like tigers on the court. It was a tough match against a strong opponent, but we showed our character and tactical discipline. I think a draw was a fair and deserved result considering what the team showed throughout the match.” He added that achieving a positive result in such matches reflects the high morale and discipline of the players, which is a positive sign for the team’s future in upcoming competitions.
Refereeing controversy surrounding Kadesh's dismissal
The Al-Ittihad goalkeeper's post-match comments also addressed the most controversial refereeing decision of the game: the sending off of his teammate, defender Hassan Kadash. Rajkovic expressed his strong objection to the decision, arguing that the red card was unjustified and directly impacted the team's balance at a crucial moment in the match. He explained, "I think the sending-off was wrong. From my position on the pitch, I didn't see that the tackle warranted a straight red card." Rajkovic also mentioned his prior familiarity with the referee from previous encounters in the Spanish league, adding a personal touch to his assessment of the decision.
The importance of El Clásico in the context of the Roshan League
The Clasico matches between Al-Hilal and Al-Ittihad hold immense historical significance. They represent more than just three points in the league race; they are a battle for supremacy and prestige in Saudi football. This encounter is considered one of the fiercest derbies in Asia, followed with great passion by millions of fans. With the tremendous development of the Saudi Professional League and its attraction of international stars, these matches have become a focus of global attention, placing additional pressure on players, coaches, and referees alike.
Impact on the course of competition
The result of this match directly impacts the title race. Every point gained or lost in El Clásico could prove crucial in determining the champion at the end of the season. For Al-Ittihad, even a draw would have been a significant morale boost and strengthened their position in the title race. Therefore, the controversy surrounding key refereeing decisions, such as Kadesh's sending-off, takes on added importance, as it could alter the course of an entire season.
