5 Fixtures to Watch through RSL's early rounds
Saudi Showdown: 5 Fixtures to Set RSL's Stage Ablaze
The release of the new season fixture list is a global football tradition, and the Roshn Saudi League (RSL) is no exception. Fans eagerly anticipate clashes between fierce rivals, heated encounters fueled by history, and the spectacle of debuts from high-profile newcomers. As the RSL prepares for a pause due to the 2026 FIFA World Cup Asian Qualifiers, the opening rounds promise an intense battle for early dominance.
Matchweek 1: A Champion's Challenge
NEOM SC will embark on their inaugural top-flight journey with a baptism by fire. The First Division League champions face reigning Asian champions Al Ahli in Jeddah. Christophe Galtier's NEOM boasts the talents of Alexandre Lacazette, Saimon Bouabre and Nathan Zeze, while Al Ahli counters with Riyad Mahrez and Ivan Toney, bolstered further by emerging French star Enzo Millot. This clash sets the stage for a captivating season opener.
Matchweek 2: A Star-Studded Showdown
Al Qadsiah, who stormed into contention last season with a fourth-place finish and King's Cup final appearance, travel to face Al Hilal. The visitors have added Italian international Mateo Retegui, top scorer from last season’s Serie A. This match also marks the return of Musab Al Juwayr to Al Hilal after his move from Al Qadsiah. Meanwhile, Darwin Nunez could make his home debut for Al Hilal, and new manager Simone Inzaghi takes the helm at the Kingdom Arena.
Matchweek 3: NEOM SC's Home Debut
NEOM SC’s first season in the top flight reaches a thrilling climax with their home debut against Al Okhdood at King Khalid Sports City Stadium in Tabuk. Following a dramatic promotion campaign last season, fans will witness their team take on a side narrowly escaping relegation in the previous term.
Matchweek 3: The Rivalry Reignites
The classic clash between Al Ahli and Al Hilal erupts in Round 3, with both teams eager to assert dominance early on. Last season's encounters were fiercely contested, including Ivan Toney’s epic hat-trick against Al Hilal at the Kingdom Arena and a gripping AFC Champions League Elite semi-final.
Matchweek 4: The Jeddah Duel
Defending champions Al Ittihad face off against Al Nassr in another highly anticipated Jeddah derby. Al Ittihad dominated last season's encounters, but new Al Nassr manager Jorge Jesus aims to orchestrate a turnaround with his star-studded squad featuring Cristiano Ronaldo and Joao Felix.