1-0! Latest Saudi League Title Race: Al-Nassr Drops Top Spot, Benzema Injured After Two Scoreless Games

The Saudi Pro League title race is heating up! Al-Nassr’s main rival, Al-Ittihad Jeddah, secured another victory, aggressively challenging the top spot—a tough blow for Cristiano Ronaldo’s championship hopes. Meanwhile, Al-Hilal, Al-Nassr’s city rival, is struggling with injuries, signaling a shift in the league’s competitive landscape.

In this round, Al-Ittihad Jeddah faced Damac and took the lead in the 37th minute through Kessi. They held onto the 1-0 advantage until full time, securing a narrow victory. On the current league table, Al-Ittihad leads with 56 points, Al-Nassr follows closely with 55, Al-Hilal has 54, and Al-Fayha 53, ranking 2nd to 5th—Al-Ittihad and Al-Fayha have played one more match.

Looking at the standings, this season’s title will likely be decided among Al-Ittihad, Al-Nassr, Al-Hilal, and Al-Fayha. Al-Nassr can reclaim the top spot if they beat Najma this round, keeping their championship ambitions alive. Al-Ittihad should not be underestimated—they are last season’s AFC Elite League champions, boasting stars like Kessi, Toni, Mendy, Ibañez, and Deminal, and remain unbeaten in 15 matches.

Al-Ittihad defeated Al-Nassr 3-2 in the first round and also beat them in the Super Cup, showing strong momentum. Al-Hilal, however, is struggling: they drew 1-1 with Al-Juai in the last round despite having a player advantage. Benzema has failed to score in two consecutive games and now faces an adductor injury. Al-Hilal confirmed he will miss the upcoming match against Al-Fayha and undergo an MRI assessment.

Benzema’s signing initially sparked Ronaldo’s dissatisfaction, as he felt the league’s resources favored Al-Hilal. But now, the move seems questionable: at 38, Benzema’s form is declining, and he is sidelined by injury. Moreover, Al-Hilal withdrew the registration of their 26-year-old, €35 million Uruguayan striker Nunez to accommodate Benzema’s €6 million transfer—raising questions about whether Benzema’s current value was overestimated.

The Saudi title race is intense. Which team do you think will lift the trophy? Will Ronaldo finally achieve his championship dream?