Climb in the Desert: Al-Ala's Bold Leap Toward Roshen Promotion
17 February 2026
Portuguese coach fires Al-Ala toward direct Pro League promotion.
Since taking charge, Jose Peseiro has steered Al-Ala on a run, reshaping the club’s path and placing them in a promotion spot to Roshen Pro League next season.
When Peseiro took over, Al-Ala sat fifth in the Yelo (Saudi First Division), but vaulted to second, proving itself a serious challenger for the two ascent spots in a dramatic turn.
A decisive 3-1 win over Diriyah in round 22 sealed the shift, lifting Al-Ala to 46 points and edging their rival on goal difference behind Abha (57) that season.
Under competition rules, the top two clubs qualify directly for Roshen, while teams from third to sixth enter a playoff, with a third-placed side earning promotion, making Al-Ala’s second place especially valuable at stake.
Numbers Reflect the Turnaround
Under Peseiro, Al-Ala has played eight matches, winning six and drawing one, with only a single defeat in his first appearance. The team has collected 19 points from 24 possible, momentum this season.
Entering the business end, Al-Ala has strung together five straight wins, starting with a 3-0 thrashing of Al-Wahda in round 18 and continuing to beat Diriyah. The side has not tasted defeat in seven.
In the last five rounds, Al-Ala has taken maximum points (15), making them the league’s form team and edging Abha on goal difference.
Defensively, even after conceding three in a 2-3 loss to Al-Raed, the side has allowed just three more in the following seven matches.
Experience Fuels the Promotion Dream
Al-Ala benefits from a veteran core used to Roshen, giving them an edge in the climb. Key players include Mohammed Al-Owais, Michel (former Al-Hilal), Mohammed Al-Mojad from Al-Ahli, Abdulmajid Al-Sulayhim on loan from Al-Nassr, and Argentine Cristian Jovanka.
With this blend of experience and steady coaching, Peseiro seems to be building more than a streak of good results; it’s a clear project to restore Al-Ala to the top via Roshen. Sniper mode: win again.
