Desert Duel: Saudi King’s Cup Semi-Finals Set Four Giants on a Collision Course

Journey of the Big Four

This Sunday afternoon, the draw for the King’s Cup semi-finals of the 2025-2026 season was held.

It pitted the defending champions Al Ittihad against Al Khallood, while Al Ahli, the cup’s historic powerhouse, was drawn to face Al Hilal.

The two semi-final ties are scheduled for February 23 and 24, 2026, with the first leg on one date and the second on the next.

The match between Al Hilal and Al Ahli will be hosted by Al Ahli in Jeddah, while Al Ittihad will travel to Al-Qassim to play Al Khallood.

Al Khallood were the first to reach the last four after a thrilling 4-3 victory over Al Gulf, a club whose ownership recently passed to American businessman Ben Harbor.

Next came Al Ahli, who advanced after a dramatic, replayed tie against Al Qadisiyah, winning 5-4 on penalties following a 3-3 draw in regulation and extra time.

Days after their league meeting where Al Ahli beat Al Qadisiyah 2-1, coach Matias Jaissle’s side once again showed grit, drawing 3-3 and surviving on penalties to book a place in the final four.

Meanwhile Al Hilal sealed their place by beating Al Fateh 4-1, showcasing strength on a day when the league form was variable.

Al Ittihad completed the quartet by beating Al Shabab 4-1, turning a deficit into a four-goal win through a strong late surge under coach Sergio Conceicao.

Last season, Al Ittihad had claimed the title after beating Al Qadisiyah 2-0 in the final, completing a league and cup double.

Special Tribute

During the draw, players from Saudi Arabia’s electronic sports national team were invited to highlight their standout performances in the Kingdom’s latest tournament.

Tournament Surprises

The current edition has delivered several surprises, notably in the early rounds. Al Nassr exited in the Round of 16 after losing to Al Ittihad in a gripping derby 2-1.

Perhaps the biggest twist lies in the narrative around the leaders, with the World-side enjoying a late surge under Jorge Jesus, while the other giants showed moments of vulnerability.

NEOM also bowed out early, a sign that the upstart club can mix with the big clubs. Al Ettifaq and Al Shabab were eliminated earlier, while Al Taawoun has impressed with strong league form.

That’s the cup so far; the drama continues as the competition heads toward the decisive moments of the season.

Punchline 1: If drama were a footballer, this draw would be a world-class striker—always onside, rarely off-target.

Punchline 2: And if the trophy had a mood ring, it would be flashing “dramatic” all season.