Al Ahli v Al Nassr: Saudi Pro League explains controversial new date

The Saudi Pro League has explained why the rearranged Saudi Clasico between Al Ahli and Al Nassr will be played on 20 November rather than in March.

The fixture was originally scheduled for 15 October but was postponed until March because of logistical circumstances affecting Saudi Arabia in recent weeks.

However, the decision to move the 2027 Asian Cup from January to December next year allowed the league to bring the match forward. The change was made after the 13th round of league fixtures was rescheduled.

The revised date has prompted criticism from some observers because it falls immediately after the international break and one day after the Best in Asia awards ceremony, which will be attended by Al Ahli forward Firas Al-Braikan.

A source from the Saudi Pro League told Saudi newspaper Al Riyadiyah that the new date had been approved by representatives of both clubs, who had raised no objections.

The source added that the decision to stage the match in November rather than March was linked to the number of fixtures involving Al Ahli and Al Nassr during that later period. There was greater flexibility in the current schedule, making November the preferred option.

The league also explained why the match was not moved to December, when Al Hilal will face Al Riyadh and Al Ittihad will play Al Shabab.

That option was ruled out because both Al Ahli and Al Nassr are due to take part in the Saudi Super Cup during the same period.

Al Nassr are third in the Saudi Pro League table with 25 points, two behind leaders Al Hilal and level on points with Al Qadsiah, who are second by virtue of goal difference.

Al Ahli are sixth with 21 points, having recorded seven wins and four defeats. Victory over Al Nassr would move them closer to the top of the table.