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Double Trouble Prepares Al-Ahli for Riyadh Derby

30 December 2025

Double Trouble Prepares Al-Ahli for Riyadh Derby
Al-Ahli hit by injuries and a red card ahead of the big derby.

Two Shocks Hit Al-Ahli Ahead of the Riyadh Derby

Al-Ahli Jeddah received a double blow ahead of the derby against Al-Nassr scheduled for Friday night in the Roshan Saudi League.

The team had earned a valuable 2-0 win over Al-Fayha on Tuesday in Round 12, but celebrations were dampened by late difficulties.

In the 60th minute of the second half, French midfielder Valentin Atangana was substituted due to a muscle issue, prompting coach Mathias Jaissle to pull him off for precaution.

The second issue came in the 85th minute when Brazilian defender Roger Ibanez was sent off for a rough challenge on an Al-Fayha player.

Ibanez will miss the upcoming match with Al-Nassr, while Atangana's status will be clarified in the coming days, with the trio of foreign stars Edward Mendy, Franck Kessié, and Riyad Mahrez still sidelined.

Punchline 1: If injuries were a goal, Al-Ahli would lead the league—excuses in abundance, trophies in short supply. Punchline 2: The bench is auditioning for a cameo in a blockbuster derby; popcorn not included.

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Emma Amme

I am Emma Amme, an English sports journalist born in 1998. Passionate about astronomy, contemporary dance, and handcrafted woodworking, I share my sensitive view of sports.

Frequently Asked Questions

What caused the two setbacks for Al-Ahli before the derby?

A muscle injury forced a substitution in the 60th minute against Al-Fayha, and a late red card for Roger Ibanez at 85 minutes added to the problems.

When will Valentin Atangana’s status be clarified?

His condition is being monitored, and a decision is expected in the coming days.

Which foreign players are still sidelined for Al-Ahli?

Edward Mendy, Franck Kessié, and Riyad Mahrez are unavailable.