The Historic Rivalry Returns: Al-Hilal Faces Al-Ahli in Saudi Pro League Thriller
The upcoming classico between Al-Hilal and Al-Ahli carries special significance — not only for the current title race in the 2025–2026 Saudi Rosh League, but also because of a long history filled with statistics and memorable clashes, making it one of Saudi football’s most iconic fixtures.
Al-Hilal’s Edge in League Meetings
In all historical league encounters between the two sides, Al-Hilal has won 50 matches, compared to 26 victories for Al-Ahli, with 31 draws — underscoring the “Blue” side’s continued dominance domestically.
Since the inception of the professional league system, the teams have met 33 times, with Al-Hilal claiming 16 wins and Al-Ahli five, while 12 matches ended in draws, including the most recent first-leg clash this season.
Head-to-Head Across All Competitions
Looking at all official competitions, the rivalry extends to 154 matches. Al-Hilal has triumphed 68 times, Al-Ahli 42, and 44 encounters ended in draws. These numbers confirm the classic’s status as one of Saudi football’s most fiercely contested fixtures.
Top Scorers in the Classic
Al-Hilal vs Al-Ahli clash boasts a long list of historic goal scorers. Leading the charts is Sami Al-Jaber with 15 goals, followed by Omar Al-Somah with 13. Other notable scorers include Salem Al-Dawsari, Rogério, and Hossam Abu Dawood, each with eight goals.
Strong Seasons for Both Teams
Al-Hilal enters the fixture unbeaten in 18 league rounds, with 14 wins, four draws, 47 goals scored, and 18 conceded — a perfect record so far.
Al-Ahli have also impressed this season, with 13 wins, four draws, and a single defeat, scoring 33 goals and conceding 12, marking them as serious contenders for the title.
The ‘German Coach Curse’ Haunts Al-Hilal
Despite their historical advantage, Al-Hilal faces a unique challenge against German coach Matthias Jaissle. In the last three meetings under Jaissle, Al-Ahli has either won twice or drawn once, asserting tactical dominance over the Blues.
This recent edge gives Al-Ahli a psychological boost ahead of the classic, turning the clash into a revenge test for Al-Hilal as they aim to break the ‘Yaissle curse’ and reclaim control. The fixture is highly anticipated across Saudi football circles for its drama and intensity.
Al Hilal vs. Al Ahli. Your evening’s soccer viewing is sorted ⚽️💥
20:30 KSA – DON’T MISS IT ⚔️ pic.twitter.com/eio3XTmW1N
— Roshn Saudi League (@SPL_EN) February 2, 2026
What time does Al-Hilal vs Al-Ahli kick off?
The Al-Hilal vs Al-Ahli showdown takes place today, Monday, in Round 20 of the Roshn League:
- Saudi Arabia: 8:30 PM SAST
- Egypt: 7:30 PM EET
- UAE: 9:30 PM GST
- Tunisia: 6:30 PM CET
Broadcast Information
Shabaka Thamaniya (Network 8) holds exclusive rights for the match across the Middle East and North Africa. The game will air live on Shabaka 8 HD1, accompanied by a dedicated analysis studio breaking down the tactical and technical details of the clash.
