One of the most anticipated fixtures of the Saudi Pro League season is set for Friday when Al Ahli host Al Ittihad at King Abdullah Sports City Stadium in Jeddah. The Jeddah Derby, always one of the fiercest rivalries in Saudi football, carries extra weight this time around as both clubs battle for position at the top of the standings.
Demiral Ruled Out with Injury
Al Ahli will be without their influential Turkish international defender Merih Demiral, who has been officially ruled out of the match after failing to recover from a recent injury. Demiral underwent medical examinations in Jeddah earlier this week, and the club’s medical staff confirmed he would not be fit in time for the derby.
The 28-year-old has been a cornerstone of Al Ahli’s defense since joining the club from Juventus in 2023 for a reported 17 million euros. His absence is a significant blow for manager Matthias Jaissle, who will need to reshuffle his backline for what is arguably the biggest domestic match of the season.
Demiral’s form this season has been instrumental in Al Ahli’s push for the league title. Just last month, he was at the heart of a performance that helped his team climb to the top of the table, earning widespread praise from fans who chanted his name throughout the match.
What Is at Stake for Both Clubs
Al Ahli enter the derby in strong form, sitting near the summit of the Saudi Pro League standings. A win on Friday would strengthen their grip on the title race and send a powerful statement to their cross-city rivals. For Al Ittihad, the derby represents an opportunity to close the gap and reignite their own championship ambitions after an inconsistent stretch of results.
The King Abdullah Sports City Stadium, known locally as Al Jawhara Al Mushia, is expected to be packed for the occasion. Tickets have been in high demand since going on sale, reflecting the enormous passion that surrounds the Jeddah Derby across the Kingdom.
A Season of High Drama in the Saudi Pro League
This season’s Saudi Pro League has delivered no shortage of drama, with several clubs competing fiercely for domestic honors. The league continues to attract global attention thanks to its roster of international stars and the growing quality of competition week after week. The Jeddah Derby, with its deep historical roots and intense atmosphere, remains the jewel in the crown of Saudi club football.
Friday’s match kicks off at King Abdullah Sports City in what promises to be a defining moment in the 2025-26 campaign. Al Ahli will need to find a way to compensate for Demiral’s absence if they are to emerge victorious against a determined Al Ittihad side hungry for local bragging rights.
