Saudi FA backs Al-Nassr after Al-Wasl clash postponed in AFC Champions League Elite

The Saudi Arabian Football Federation has backed Al-Nassr after the AFC postponed their AFC Champions League Elite meeting with Al-Wasl, saying all arrangements had been completed to receive the UAE club in Riyadh.

The Asian Football Confederation announced the postponement several hours before the match, but did not give a reason or set a new date.

The fixture had been scheduled for Monday, 26 October, as part of the third round of the league phase. Reports said travel difficulties prevented Al-Wasl’s delegation from leaving the UAE for Saudi Arabia.

In a statement, the Saudi Arabian Football Federation said it had worked with Al-Nassr and the relevant authorities to complete the preparations for the visitors’ arrival.

Those arrangements included issuing flight permits, providing the required organisational and logistical support, and formally informing the Asian Football Confederation that preparations were complete.

The federation also said it had coordinated with the UAE Football Association and Al-Wasl, notifying both that the necessary arrangements had been finalised and that Saudi Arabia was ready to receive the delegation.

The match officials had already arrived in Riyadh, with the match commissioner and the appointed refereeing team in place ahead of the scheduled kick-off.

The Saudi Arabian Football Federation said their arrival further demonstrated that preparations to host the fixture had been completed.

It added that it would provide full support to Al-Nassr and all Saudi clubs competing in international competitions.

The federation also said it was ready to assist with any formal procedures the clubs might take to protect their rights.

Al-Nassr are eighth in the western section of the competition with three points. Al-Wasl are 14th and have yet to earn a point.