Al Ahli SC vs Al Nassr prediction 02.01.2026 | Saudi Professional League

Al Ahli SC won the AFC Champions League last year, winning the competition for the first time ever. This season started well for the popular Royals, winning the Super Cup title. Throughout the season, the Royals did well across the competitions, reaching the King Semi-Finals and the AFC Champions League knockout phase. In the Saudi Professional League, the Royals are doing an OK job, sitting in 4th place. Unfortunately, the top three teams have been too good, and Al Ahli SC are already four points behind 3rd-place Al Hilal, having played a game more. The title seems pretty impossible, since they are already nine points behind Al Nassr.

The team's three key players, Franck Kessié, Riyad Mahrez, and first-choice goalkeeper Edouard Mendy, are unavailable since they are at AFCON with their national teams. Moreover, Roger Ibanez is suspended after receiving a red card in the previous league game.

Al Nassr are still without a major trophy since Cristiano Ronaldo's arrival. Their only title was in the Arab Club Champions Cup, but that is not considered a major trophy. However, this season, the "Big Yellow" are in a fantastic situation after the first 11 rounds in the Saudi Professional League since they won 31 points - a remarkable ten wins and one draw so far! However, their upcoming period is crucial because they will face Al Ahli SC, Al Qadsiah, and Al Hilal in the upcoming three matches. Good results in that period would greatly improve their chances. 

For the upcoming game, Sadio Mane will be unavailable since he is at the AFCON with his national team. Additionally, another key payer, Mohamed Simakan, is out with an injury.