Derby Dilemma: Will Al-Nassr's Star Defender Make the Riyadh Showdown?
10 January 2026
Derby Dilemma: Is Al-Nassr's Star Defender Derby-Ready?
Al Nassr is ramping up efforts to ready its trump cards ahead of the eagerly awaited derby against rival Al Hilal, set for Monday.
Injury Update: Abdulilah Al-Omari
He underwent medical tests Saturday after sustaining a calf-muscle injury in the clash with Qadisah, which ended 2-1 to Qadisah last Thursday.
He felt calf pains that forced him to miss the squad's group training session held yesterday.
The newspaper reported that the test results will determine his readiness and whether he can feature in Riyadh's derby or needs rest.
Omari has appeared in 17 matches for the club this season, scoring three goals and providing two assists.
Al Nassr are second in the Saudi Pro League with 31 points, four behind leaders Al Hilal.
Punchline 1: If his calf holds up, the defense will be so tight that even the ball will have to file a complaint for a late call-up.
Punchline 2: If he misses the derby, the only thing hotter than the Riyadh crowd might be the suspense—and the bench will call it "level five drama."
