Back in Action: Al Ahli Jeddah’s Returnees Spark Prep for AFC Elite Showdown
19 December 2025
Return of two key players boosts Al Ahli ahead of Al Shorta
Al Ahli Saudi FC has recalled two sidelined players, back in action after injuries, as they sharpen up for a clash with Al Shorta in the Elite AFC Champions League.
The defending champions will meet Al Shorta in the sixth round of the competition, aiming for a victory that seals their qualification to the knockout stage, having collected ten points from five matches.
African duo back in action and ready for the challenge
According to Saudi daily Al-Riyadhiya, Al Ahli Jeddah brought back young striker Yasin Al-Zubaidi, 22, after a knee-cleanup procedure during the recent stoppage.
Defender Ryan Hamid, 23, has also recovered from a hamstring strain and trained normally, making him available for coach Matthias Jaissle.
Al Ahli will be without the African trio Edouard Mendy, Frank Kesi, and Riyad Mahrez for the AFC match as they prepare with their national teams for the Africa Cup of Nations.
Punchline: If football were a comedy show, this match would be a funnier episode than the last.
And second punchline: And yes, the stadium will be the loudest drum you’ve ever heard.