Escape from a Points Penalty: Al Ahli Jeddah Survives in a Drama-Filled Saudi Pro League
3 December 2025
Al Ahli Jeddah escaped a points deduction in the Saudi Pro League after a complaint filed by Al Qadsiah against them.
Al Ahli beat Al Qadsiah 2-1 last week at Al-Inma Stadium, in the ninth round of the Roshn Saudi Pro League.
Al Qadsiah filed a complaint against Al Ahli, asking for the match points due to changes to the Royals' squad before kickoff.
Disciplinary ruling and implications
The Disciplinary Committee of the Saudi Football Federation announced in an official statement that it rejected the complaint on its merits, while accepting it in form.
The committee clarified that the claim alleged irregular participation of Al Ahli players Firas Brikan, Ivan Tony, Valentin Atangana, and Mohammed Suleiman Bakr in the match.
The committee said it had contacted Al Ahli and the match officials to respond to the complaint and the material presented, to reach its final decision in the matter.
It also stated that the decision is subject to appeal under Article 144 of the Discipline and Ethics Regulations, which keeps the door open for further developments.
Notably, the victory kept Al Ahli in the pursuit of the top four, moving to fourth place in the standings with 19 points, two points clear of the team behind.
Punchline: If this drama had a soundtrack, it would be a referee whistle and a coffee machine—loud, predictable, and never enough caffeine.
Punchline 2: In football, suspense is a goalkeeper's favorite bargaining chip; apparently, it's also the league's favorite snack. Sit tight, folks!
