Medical Verdict Keeps Ibanez Out as Al-Ahli Readies for Al-Gharafa Showdown
18 October 2025
Injury Update
A medical report settles the final stance on Brazilian defender Roger Ibanez for the match between Al-Ahli and Al-Gharafa in the Asian Elite Champions League.
Al-Ahli hosts Al-Gharafa on Monday at the Al-Nama Stadium in Jeddah, in the third round of the group stage of the competition.
Ibanez Injury
The German coach Matias Jaissle awaits the final medical report on Ibanez recovery and his ability to take part in the match.
The Brazilian defender continues treatment under the clubs medical staff, hoping to be ready for the big game against the Gharafa.
Absence's Impact
Ibanez absence is very significant for Al-Ahli, as he is a key pillar this season, helping the team win the Saudi Super Cup in Hong Kong on penalties (5-3).
He has played in 10 matches this season across all competitions, with 1 goal and 3 yellow cards.
Known as a defensive rock with an attacking edge, he is not only a stopper but also a threat on set pieces and has good passing under pressure.
Since joining from Roma, Ibanez has played 88 matches in all competitions, scoring 11 goals and 5 assists, contributing to the teams success in Asia Elite and the Saudi Super Cup.
Uncertain Future
Despite European interest, Al-Ahli remains keen to keep Ibanez, with a contract until 2027 and no current plan to part ways as they chase the league title and continental glory.
Controversial Changes
The draw with Al-Shabab has drawn criticism for changes made by Jaissle in the second half, as the coach rested key players while Ibanez and his compatriot Galino were absent.
Jaissle brought in Saleh Abu Al Shamat who impressed lately with the national team, replacing Riyad Mahrez on the right wing in the second half.
The coach also fielded Fras Al-Brekan, Mohammed Abdul Rahman, and Eid Al Molad in place of Ivan Toni, Ali Majrashi and Ziyad Al-Juhani in the 83rd minute.
Four minutes later Al-Shabab equalised via an own goal from Matteo Dams, who had been playing short handed since a red card to Shouarik.
Shouarik was sent off in the 77th minute after a VAR check for a rough challenge on Enzo Milot, Al-Ahli midfielder.
Jaissle tried to turn the game in stoppage time by bringing in Fahd Al Rashidi for Milot, hoping for a late winner, but it did not materialize.
Rashidi's save in the 95th minute denied a possible winner after a shot from Ivory Coast midfielder Frank Kisee hit the Rashidi's foot and went away.
Punchline 1: If Ibanez is back in time, the only thing that will be offside is the clock on my calendar. Punchline 2: If not, the bench will double as a comedy club while the ball keeps pretending it is shy about scoring.
