Kessié’s secret to big-match magic: how Al Ahli’s maestro shines in the Saudi Derby
7 March 2026
The Ivorian Franck Kessié, Al Ahli's midfielder, opened up about what fuels his performances in big games after the 3-1 victory against local rivals Al Ittihad in the Jeddah derby.
Big-match mindset and derby reflections
Kessié powered Al Ahli to a 3-1 win on Friday at the Al-Inma Stadium, in the 25th round of the Roshen Pro League.
Speaking to the TV program Nadina after the game, he said that the derby is always tough but we are very happy we won.
He added that he wants to thank the fans, they were very important to us, and he also wants to thank all his teammates, the whole squad, the coaching staff and everyone who works for this club.
On his big-match form, he said he is a professional and that every match in this club's shirt he aims to give his best, not only in the big ones.
But in football, sometimes you don't play well; that's possible, but when I step on the pitch I must give everything.
Kessié has featured for Al Ahli in 31 games this season, scoring 9 goals and providing 3 assists.
Punchline 1: If this derby were an exam, Kessié would get an A for aiming and execution.
Punchline 2: The ball asked for an autograph too, but Kessié said next match.
