Derby Dilemma: Al-Ahli’s Star Midfielder Hobbles On as Big Saudi Fixtures Loom
7 March 2026
Match context
Al-Ahli’s hopes in the derby were tempered by a potential injury to star midfielder Ziad Al-Jahni. They secured a 3-1 victory over Al-Ittihad at Al-Inma Stadium in Jeddah, in the 25th round of the Saudi Pro League.
Injury update and next fixtures
Al-Jahni started the match and was withdrawn in the 67th minute to be replaced by Firas Al-Breikan after suffering an adductor issue. The Saudi press reported that he had been dealing with a groin problem prior to the game but pushed through due to the team’s needs.
The club now fears he could miss upcoming fixtures, especially the away trip to Al-Qadsiah in Dammam and the King Cup semi-final against Al-Hilal on March 18. The 24-year-old is set to undergo MRI scans at a Jeddah medical center to determine the injury’s extent and expected downtime.
Al-Jahni has been a key figure this season, featuring 27 times and recording one goal and one assist.
Punchline 1: If injuries paid rent, the physio would own the stadium by now.
Punchline 2: In football, the fastest thing isn’t the counter-attack—it’s the medical report predicting when he’ll be back on the pitch.
