Raising the Stakes: Al-Ettifaq’s Coach Blames Inzaghi, Praises Al-Dosri Ahead of a Saudi Showdown

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Saad Al-Shehri, head coach of Al-Ettifaq, praised Salem Al-Dosri, captain of Al-Hilal, for his level of play ahead of their Saturday showdown in the fifth round of the Roshen Saudi Pro League.

In the preview press conference, Al-Shehri noted that Al-Dosri—recently crowned Asia’s Best Player—was among the players who helped the Saudi national team qualify for the World Cup finals.

Saudi Arabia earned a seventh World Cup appearance, aided by the goal-difference edge over Iraq for advancement, with Al-Dosri contributing to the team’s success along the way.

Al-Shehri stressed that the World Cup qualification was the fruit of collective work and planning by the Saudi Football Federation, led by Yasser Al-Mishal, and the dedicated efforts of players—especially Al-Dosri.

He added that Al-Dosri is a model professional both on and off the pitch, noting that Inzaghi’s setup doesn’t rely heavily on wingers, so the midfielder’s absence might not dramatically alter the team’s approach.

“We will look to exploit any absences or tactical nuances to our advantage,” the Ettifaq coach said, outlining a plan to contend with a strong opponent like Hilal.

Al-Shehri also described the upcoming match as difficult and one that demands serious preparation, praising Hilal as a distinguished side and signaling Ettifaq’s commitment to a strong performance and a positive result.

When asked about past clashes with Hilal, the coach recalled competitive encounters and insisted Ettifaq would play to showcase their strength and character in pursuit of an upset.

He emphasized that in big games, players feel the weight of responsibility, which often elevates their performance, and warned that Hilal remains a powerhouse that can weather absences without losing its edge.

On Khaled Al-Ghannam, a former Ettifaq player who also had stints with Hilal and Al-Nassr, Al-Shehri remarked that he hadn’t always had enough opportunities with the big clubs, a nod to the tougher pathways in the professional game.

Salem Al-Dosri’s Rise and Accolades

Separately, Al-Hilal celebrated Salem Al-Dosri after he was named Asia’s Best Player for 2025, marking his second win after 2022 and placing him among Asia’s elite ahead of rivals like Akram Afif and Arif Aiman.

The club’s official account lauded him on X for guiding both the national team and the club with exemplary leadership, underscoring that “the best leaves a lasting impact.”

Al-Dosri’s achievements have cemented his status as a unique figure in Saudi football, with the forward’s influence felt across competitions and the national team alike.

A Historic Season for a Star

Last season saw Al-Dosri deliver one of his best-ever campaigns, tallying 27 goals in 51 appearances across all competitions and adding 18 assists, highlighting his outsized influence in modern Saudi football.

In the Saudi Pro League alone, he contributed directly to 30 goals (15 goals, 15 assists), tying Karim Benzema for most assists and signaling his role as a pivotal creator for his side.

He also earned domestic accolades, including Best Local Player in the league and recognition from global outlets like Sofascore, underscoring his impact beyond club borders.

In Asia, Al-Dosri topped the AFC Champions League scoring chart with 10 goals, even as his team bowed out in the semi-finals to Al-Ahli, illustrating both personal brilliance and the team’s broader competitive arc.

During the FIFA Club World Cup 2025, he scored in the group stage to help Hilal progress to the knockout rounds, though injuries later sidelined him for the quarterfinals and beyond, a setback for both club and country.

Overall, the season solidified Al-Dosri’s standing as a global footballing figure and a central pillar for Saudi Arabian football’s continued ascent.