Saudi Pro League seeks to continue operations despite regional tensions

ABHA, Saudi Arabia — The Saudi Pro League is continuing its matches despite soccer activities being paused in other Middle Eastern nations due to the conflict in Iran.

One match took place on Thursday, where Damac triumphed over Al Riyadh with a score of 3-0, while another match was postponed to Saturday after Al Qadsiah’s flight to face Al Kholood was canceled.

On Friday, Al Ahli will compete against Al Ittihad in the Jeddah derby, a significant event on the domestic schedule, with an anticipated attendance of nearly 60,000.

Saudi clubs were unable to participate in their Asian Champions League knockout matches earlier this week due to security issues in the area.

Domestically, the Saudi Ministry of Defense reported a suspected Iranian drone strike on the U.S. Embassy in Riyadh early Tuesday.

Nevertheless, the league has stated that it is safe to continue playing, as indicated in a letter sent to clubs this week.

The league will take a break from March 14 to April 3, coinciding with the upcoming international break.

Al-Hilal coach Jorge Jesus informed local media that he was preparing for Friday’s match against Al-Najma as per usual.

“We in Riyadh are safe, stable and secure, and we are monitoring political developments carefully while awaiting necessary guidance,” the former Benfica coach remarked on Tuesday. “We continue our daily operations as normal.”

Al-Nassr leads the league standings but will be missing Cristiano Ronaldo for Saturday’s game against Neom SC in Riyadh due to a hamstring injury.