Al-Ahli face Zakaria Hawsawi absence for crucial Al-Nassr derby

Al-Ahli could be without left-back Zakaria Hawsawi for their Saudi Pro League meeting with Al-Nassr after the defender suffered an injury while on international duty with Saudi Arabia.

The two sides are due to meet at King Abdullah Sports City Stadium in Jeddah on 15 October, in the ninth round of the Roshn Saudi League.

According to Saudi newspaper Al-Riyadiyah, Hawsawi may miss the eagerly awaited derby after being forced off during Saudi Arabia’s 2-0 victory over Iraq on Tuesday. The match was played at the same stadium in Jeddah during the third round of the group stage at the 27th Arabian Gulf Cup.

The report said Hawsawi sustained a minor tear, more closely resembling a bruise, to the posterior cruciate ligament. He is expected to require two weeks to recover.

Al-Ahli’s medical team will begin a rehabilitation programme as soon as the defender returns to the club. He will undergo a further assessment after 10 days to determine whether he will be fit to face Al-Nassr.

The match is particularly important for Al-Ahli, who are seeking a victory to revive their challenge for the Roshn Saudi League title after a run of disappointing results.

Al-Ahli currently sit sixth in the Saudi league table with 12 points from four wins and three defeats. They are four points behind Al-Nassr, who occupy third place.