Al-Ittihad defender Ahmed Sharahili made important statements regarding the highly anticipated match between his team and Al-Hilal in the Saudi Professional League's top fixture, known as the "Saudi Clasico." Speaking on the "Our League is Different" program, Sharahili revealed the team's current priorities, his relationship with teammate Karim Benzema, and his personal preparations for upcoming matches.
Sharahili explained that Al-Ittihad's full focus is currently on their upcoming AFC Champions League match against Qatari club Al-Sadd. He said, "Our focus is on the upcoming match against Al-Sadd in the AFC Champions League, and the Al-Hilal match will require special preparation in every aspect." This statement reflects the professional mindset within the league champions, where each tournament and each match is treated with its own importance, with priority given to the most immediate fixture.
Historical context and the importance of El Clásico
The Al-Ittihad vs. Al-Hilal match is considered one of the most prestigious and intense rivalries in the history of Saudi and Asian football. The competition between these two giants spans decades, and their matches are always characterized by fierce rivalry, massive fan attendance, and a passionate atmosphere. With the significant growth of the Saudi Professional League and its attraction of international stars, the derby has taken on a global dimension, drawing attention from around the world to witness high-caliber matches between players like Karim Benzema, Neymar, and others.
Facing Benzema: A camaraderie and friendship on and off the pitch
Sharahili addressed his first encounter with his former teammate, Karim Benzema, who recently left Al-Ittihad. Sharahili emphasized the depth of his relationship with the French star, saying, "Karim Benzema is definitely like a brother to me, and that's life. I wish him all the best in his career, but my goal is to help my team." He added that the friendship remains off the pitch, while the focus on winning for the team remains on the field. This match adds a personal and emotional dimension to the derby, as former friends compete for the colors of their new team.
Expected impact of the match
The outcome of this match carries significant weight both domestically and internationally. Domestically, the points at stake are crucial in the league title race, with Al-Ittihad aiming to defend their crown and Al-Hilal striving to reclaim it after bolstering their squad with world-class signings. Internationally, the match serves as a vital marketing platform for the Roshan League, showcasing the high level of competition and skill displayed, reflecting the development of Saudi football and its ability to attract top international talent, thus reinforcing the league's status as one of the world's premier leagues.
Sharahili concluded his remarks by reassuring the fans about his physical condition after suffering a minor injury, confirming: “I suffered an injury, but it is minor, and I will be ready for the team’s next match against Al Sadd of Qatar, in addition to the Al Hilal match as normal.”.
