When the whistle roars: Bilito sets the stage for Al-Ahli vs Al-Nassr in the Saudi Clasico
2 January 2026
Referee and match context
The Saudi Football Federation entrusted Irfan Bilito, a Bosnian referee, with officiating the 13th round Clasico between Al-Ahli and Al-Nassr in the Roshen Saudi Pro League.
The 41-year-old international has already presided over several matches involving Saudi clubs and is a familiar face on European and global stages.
Bilito will be assisted by Sinad Ebrismibegovic and Davor Biljo, with Milos Gjigovic serving as the fourth official. In the video room, Romanian Ovidiu Hategan and his countryman Radu Petrescu will be on duty.
Bilito has previously taken charge of two Al-Ahli fixtures; the 2023 clash with Al-Ettifaq ended goalless, while last season Al-Ahli edged Al-Hilal 3-2.
During that period he also awarded a penalty against Ali Majrishi; Marcos Leonardo converted, but Al-Ahli still won.
Ronaldo, Portugal and Bilito
Ronaldo’s fate with Bilito has included Portugal matches in which the forward played for Al-Nassr; one game was skipped due to suspension against Armenia and marked a remarkable 9-1 triumph.
With Ronaldo present, Portugal suffered a 1-0 defeat to Denmark in the Nations League, and a friendly loss to Slovenia; the scoring drought persists when Bilito’s whistle is heard.
Among Bilito’s notable assignments last year was Arsenal’s 3-0 win over Real Madrid in the Champions League.
Bottom line: Bilito’s appointment adds a layer of intrigue to a high-stakes clash, and Ronaldo’s goals could sit on the bench until the whistle smiles. Expect a tense duel, with fans hoping for flair and fair play rather than drama and diversions.
Punchline: Bilito’s whistle might require its own stress ball. Punchline 2: Ronaldo may need a GPS to locate the back of the net—this whistle keeps moving the goalposts.
