When Strategy Collides: Jaissle Deepens Jesus’s Woes in a Saudi Showdown
2 January 2026
Saudi Pro League Showdown: Jaissle Edges Out Jesus 3-2
German coach Matthias Jaissle of Al Ahli Jeddah continued to press the advantage over Jorge Jesus of Al Nassr, after guiding his side to a 3-2 victory in round 13 of the Roshen Saudi Pro League.
With the result, Al Ahli moved to 25 points in fourth place, three points behind third-placed Taawoun and four behind second-placed Al Hilal; Al Nassr stayed on 31.
Jaissle has now defeated Jesus for the fourth consecutive match across competitions since last season, including a league clash in which the German coach beat the Portuguese while he was at Al Hilal, 3-2.
Rivalry Deepens Across Competitions
In last season's Elite Asian Champions League semi-final, the clash repeated, and Al Ahli again prevailed, 3-1.
Jesus joined the coaching staff at Al Nassr but clashed with Jaissle's men in the Super Cup final, losing on penalties after a 2-2 draw, before the German coach again triumphed over his Portuguese counterpart for the fourth straight time.
Punchline 1: If coaching rivalries paid salaries, Jaissle and Jesus would fund a league of their own.
Punchline 2: After this duel, the only thing missing is a coffee-making contest—Jaissle would probably brew victory.
