Penalty Call Sparks Debate in Jeddah
In a Saudi Pro League showdown at the Enmaa Stadium in Jeddah, Egyptian refereeing analyst Mohamed Kamal Risha contends that Al Nassr should have been awarded a penalty against Al Ahli in round 13 of the 2025-2026 season.
What the Expert Said
Risha told the Saudi paper Al-Riyadia that Bosnian referee Irfan Belito overlooked a clear penalty in the fifth minute after Angelo was shoved by Demiral inside the box, and that the VAR official should have signaled the on-field referee.
Risha also argued that the VAR system should have prompted a more timely intervention from the on-field official.
Key Moments and Result
Al Ahli struck first, with two goals by English forward Evan Tony in minutes 7 and 20. Al Nassr answered with a brace from Abdulrahman Al-Omari in minutes 31 and 44. In the 55th minute, Turkish forward Meril Demirel grabbed the winner for Al Ahli.
At the end of the day, the scoreline read 3-2 in favor of Al Ahli, and the match left the league standings exposed to more debates on penalties and referrals.
Standings
Al Nassr remains at the top of the Saudi Pro League with 31 points, while Al Ahli sit fourth with 22.
