Saudi Pro League Kick-Off: Big Four Face Early Tests

The Roshn Saudi Pro League (RSL) has unveiled its fixtures for the 2025-26 season, promising a high-octane start to what could be the most competitive campaign yet. The new season kicks off on Thursday, 28 August, with immediate headline clashes and fierce rivalries.

Defending champions Al Ittihad begin their title defence away to Al Okhdood, while Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr travel to face last season’s surprise package, Al Taawoun. AFC uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener noreferrer”>Champions League Elite winners Al Ahli will host promoted NEOM SC in Jeddah, with the newcomers boasting high-profile signings including Alexandre Lacazette, Marcin Bulka, and Amadou Kone under coach Christophe Galtier.

Al Hilal open their campaign in a Riyadh derby against Al Riyadh before facing Al Qadsiah in Matchweek 2 and meeting Al Ahli in Matchweek 3. Early season fireworks continue in Matchweek 6 with the first Saudi Clasico of the season – Al Hilal visiting Al Ittihad.

Ronaldo’s Al Nassr face a daunting run between Matchweeks 13 and 16, including showdowns with Al Ahli, Al Qadsiah, Al Hilal, and Al Shabab. Meanwhile, Al Ittihad’s home clash with Al Qadsiah in the final round will be a repeat of last season’s King’s Cup final.

Derby dates to note include:

• Capital Derby – Al Hilal vs Al Nassr: MW15 & MW32

• Sea Derby – Al Ittihad vs Al Ahli: MW8 & MW25

• Eastern Province Derby – Al Qadsiah vs Al Ettifaq: MW9 & MW26

• Saudi Clasico – Al Hilal vs Al Ittihad: MW6 & MW23

Other storylines include Al Taawoun’s bid to build on last season’s AFC Champions League 2 semi-final run, and Al Shabab striker Abderrazak Hamdallah’s pursuit of Omar Al Somah’s all-time RSL scoring record, needing just five more goals to match the mark of 155.

After record-breaking viewership, attendances, and sponsorship growth last season, the 2025-26 RSL promises another thrilling chapter in Saudi football’s rise.