When Rivalry Meets Reconciliation: Ahli and Shabab Put Peace on the Pitch
11 October 2025
A looming partnership between Al Ahli and Al Shabab signals a possible end to a long-running feud as both clubs move to formalize a cooperative agreement ahead of the Saudi Pro League's return after the international break. The atmosphere around the two sides has been tense in recent months, but administrators argue that a shared calendar of community programs and media guidelines could cool the heat while keeping the competition fierce on the pitch.
The league is set to restart on Friday, October 17, after the international window that features Saudi Arabia's World Cup playoff push. The clubs are also recalibrating their public messaging and outreach efforts to send a constructive signal to fans and neutral observers.
Serious moves to calm the air
A report by the Saudi daily Al-Yaom indicates the two clubs are finalizing a formal tandem that includes media calm, reduced verbal provocations on social media, and joint community events designed to ease tensions and showcase unity.
There have been direct discussions between Prince Abdul Rahman bin Turki, a senior Shabab shareholder, and a number of Ahli officials to map a clear framework for cooperation, including social responsibility programs and interactive fan events as part of the anticipated reconciliation.
Details are expected to be announced ahead of the Friday showdown at the Al-Enma Stadium, part of the fifth round of the Saudi Pro League, serving as a field test for the sincerity of the two clubs’ intentions to move beyond the past.
Roots of tension
The friction did not begin yesterday. It dates back to late 2021-22 when Shabab’s actions contributed to Ahli's relegation to the second division after a goalless draw in the final round of the season.
The decisive match on June 27, 2022 delivered a shock to Ahli supporters who had not imagined their team outside the top tier.
Ahli bounced back in 2023 after strong technical and administrative support and a 75% stake transfer to the Public Investment Fund, returning to the top flight and later reclaiming continental glory by winning the AFC Champions League for 2024-25. In the meantime, ticket prices for their late clash with Shabab sparked controversy, with 276 riyals cited as a reminder of a historic relegation date (27-6).
Ahli’s response included a playful post after a 3-2 win, featuring a song that reignited chatter among fans and kept the rivalry in the mainstream conversation.
Paths to reconciliation before the big duel
Shabab answered with a 3-1 victory in May 2025, and their official channels followed with a witty caption that kept the exchange lively while avoiding an escalation into hostility.
The heated exchanges turned some matches into fan battles, prompting leadership from both clubs to steer back toward constructive rivalry and a shared vision for the sport.
The reconciliation plan arrives as both teams seek balance in the league standings; Ahli sits seventh with eight points, while Shabab is 12th with four points.
The upcoming clash could mark a reset: a public display of goodwill and a formal covenant of mutual respect, aligned with broader Saudi sports reforms overseen by the Ministry of Sports and the Public Investment Fund.
In the weeks ahead, the clubs aim to embed a culture of fair play and crowd management, proving that sport is a platform for growth and community values rather than a battleground.
Punchlines: If rivalry were a language, Ahli and Shabab just started conjugating it in public. And remember, the only red cards we want on October 17 are the sunburns from banners—go easy, folks!
