Desert Derby Triumph: Al Ahli Overcomes Absences to Top Al Nassr 3-2
2 January 2026
Al Ahli Triumph Despite Absences
German coach Matthias Jaissle praised his players after Al Ahli’s 3-2 win over Al Nassr in the Saudi Pro League.
Al Ahli handed Al Nassr their first defeat of the season, edging them 3-2 on Friday at the Al-Enma Stadium in Round 13.
"My team fought hard despite the absences; this win proves it, and I thank all the players for their fight and for overcoming numerical disadvantages," Jaissle said in the post-match press conference.
"The derby came without three players — Edouard Mendy, Franck Kessie, and Riyad Mahrez — due to AFCON duties, plus Roger Ibanez because of a suspension."
Spirit, Not Silences: Jaissle's Take on the Win
Jaissle told reporters: "There was a lot of emotion and intensity in the match, along with a high level of performance."
The game matched the Saudi League’s standard; spirit was strong despite the absences, and confidence remained with the players and the team.
"It's easy to talk after a win, but today I saw a squad fighting on the pitch, with every player trying to correct a teammate's mistake."
On the other hand, I will not comment on Jorge Jesus's post-match remarks about whether his side deserved defeat in the second half.
"I didn't hear what Jesus said about our counter-attacks and winning from a set piece, so I won't comment; our players earned the victory today, and our fighting spirit helped."
"We respect all opponents, and that respect extends to Jesus and his team; today we focused on our strengths and the opponent's weaknesses."
Punchline 1: If this derby proved anything, it's that absences make the heart grow fonder—and also that the bench press is real.
Punchline 2: Call it a tactical masterclass—it's not a comeback if you start counting the injuries as a plot twist.
