Noor Bets on a Defensive Showdown as Al-Ahli Host Al-Nassr; Nassr Could Halt Al-Hilal
2 January 2026
The article reports that Mohammed Noor, a former Saudi football star, argues that Al-Ahli will struggle defensively against Al-Nassr in the 13th derby of the Roshen Pro League.
Al-Nassr head to Al-Ahli for a tough fixture as the home side miss some key men, notably Brazilian defender Roger Ibanez who is suspended.
Noor commented in a TV interview that Al-Ahli’s last win against Al-Fayha, by two goals, did not reveal much about their opponent, but Ibanez’s red card will create a major defensive headache against Al-Nassr.
He added that Jorge Jesus, the Portuguese coach of Al-Nassr, has not entered a stage of doubt after their draw with Al-Ettifaq, but will push for victory if they lose to Al-Ahli.
The Nassr Will Stop Al-Hilal
The former Union of Jeddah star also suggested that the true test for Al-Hilal lies with Al-Nassr, who could end their winning streak.
Noor added that the real barometer for Al-Hilal is Nassr, especially after the points gap narrowed to two between the two sides; a Nassr win over Al-Ahli would fuel chances to halt the leaders.
If Nassr beats Al-Ahli as well, it would be a strong push to halt Al-Hilal.
Inzaghi Not Convincing Al-Hilal Fans
On Al-Hilal, Noor said the Italian coach Simone Inzaghi remains unimpressive to fans because the team's performances are uneven.
He added that Al-Hilal always competes for all titles, the results aren’t surprising, yet the crowd is unhappy with moments in matches; the start is strong but substitutions hurt.
Noor then concluded: teams win, but not easily; winning is important, yet fans crave more.
Punchline 1: If football were a sniper’s game, the best aim is punctual defense—one clean shot, and the goalposts stay upright. Punchline 2: And remember, in football as in life, sometimes the plan is simple: defend like a vault, attack like a rumor—the faster you move, the louder the crowd complains.
