Ronaldo vs Carrasco: The Riyadh Derby Official XI Sparks a Thrilling Show
17 January 2026
The Riyadh derby heats up as Jorge Jesus names his strongest XI for Al-Nassr’s clash with Al-Shabab in round 16 of the Roshen Saudi Pro League, a fixture heavy with meaning for both clubs.
Al-Nassr sit second on 31 points, level with Al-Ahli and Al-Taawoun; Al-Shabab are fourteenth with 11, raising the stakes.
Jesus trusts his attacking stars to restore the winning rhythm after a rough spell, counting on experience to swing big moments.
The starting XI for Al-Nassr
Goalkeeper: Mubarak Al Buainain.
Defence: Nawaf Boshl – Inigo Martinez – Mohammad Simaqan – Ayman Yahya.
Midfield: Abdullah Al-Khubairi – Marcelo Brozovic – Angelo – Kingsley Coman.
Attack: Cristiano Ronaldo – Joao Felix.
Meanwhile, Spaniard Imanol Alguacil named Shabab’s lineup, led by Yannick Carrasco, hoping for a positive result against a top league side.
The starting XI for Al-Shabab
Goalkeeper: Marcelo Grohe.
Defence: Mohammed Al-Thani – Wesley Hoodet – Josh Brauniel – Saad Al-Obaid.
Midfield: Unai Hernandez – Vincent Siro – Hammam Al-Hamami – Yasin Adli.
Attack: Carlos Junior – Yannick Carrasco.
On Shabab’s bench, coach Imanol emphasized attacking intent as a plan to upset the leaders, with Carrasco and crew hoping to break through a stern defense.
Both sides clash at 18:30 local time on 17 January 2026, Ronaldo and Carrasco among the brightest stars ready to light up the Riyadh night. And if you’re keeping score, the net may be as surprised as the fans—with a little extra sparkle on every shot.
Punchlines: When Ronaldo takes a shot, the goal opens a new tab. Also, if Carrasco misses, the ball will still find the back of the net—eventually, like a good joke in a long press conference.
