When Old Rivalries Meet a Crown: Ahli and Qadsiah Clash in the King’s Cup Showdown
28 November 2025
Match Preview
Al Ahli Jeddah are preparing for a rematch with Al Qadsiah in the King’s Cup quarterfinals tonight, in Jeddah, a few days after their latest Roshan Saudi Pro League meeting where Ahli won 2-1.
Ahli’s league form remains unbeaten this season, reinforcing their status as strong contenders for more silverware in a season already marked by success.
Historical Encounters in the King’s Cup
The King’s Cup head-to-head favors Ahli, who have four wins in five previous meetings, while Al Qadsiah has claimed one victory. The earliest clash dates back to 1970 in the semifinals, with Ahli winning 4-0 away and 1-0 at home. The 1978 semifinal saw Ahli triumph 2-1 in a single-leg tie. The 2015 edition saw Al Qadsiah win on penalties, 4-2, after a draw in regular time. In 2017, Ahli advanced through Cup rounds with a 3-1 win in the Round of 16 and a dominating 6-0 in the quarterfinals, before finishing runner-up in a final decided by a late twist, as their path intersected with the eventual champion.
These chapters underscore that the King’s Cup has often produced drama, and this quarterfinal clash could tilt either way as both clubs chase the title.
Current Form and Key Squad News
Ahli fans look to extend their trophy collection under German coach Matthias Jaissle, who has steered the club to continental glory and domestic silverware, including a king’s cup triumph. The team remains hungry to keep their perfect run going in the King’s Cup, a competition deeply cherished by their supporters who note Ahli’s 13 King’s Cup titles in the club’s history.
For Al Qadsiah, the match offers a timely chance to prove their growing form, aided by the return of Mexican forward Julian Kinonis from injury. Kinonis is expected to start on the bench but could feature if needed. Head coach Mitchell Gonzalez has the squad primed for a tough test as they travel to Jeddah to face Ahli in the quarterfinals.
Kinonis’s return comes after a layoff of several matches in which the team registered two losses and one win, illustrating his impact when fit. Ahead of the game, Qadsiah hope to build on recent results and push toward a Cup upset that would keep their campaign alive.
