Algerian international Riyad Mahrez continued his dazzling performances for Al-Ahli, reaffirming his high level of skill as one of the team's key players this season. This brilliance was clearly on display in the fiery encounter between Al-Ahli and Al-Shabab in the 22nd round of the Saudi Professional League, where Mahrez made his mark by scoring one goal and assisting another, leading his team in one of the most exciting matches of the season.

A fiery first half and Al-Ahly's dominance

Al-Shabab Stadium in Riyadh witnessed an exceptional night of football, as the first half of the "classic" match was marked by a rare goal-scoring spree, ending with Al-Ahli leading 4-2. Amidst this attacking onslaught, Riyad Mahrez was the maestro who orchestrated the tempo of the game, utilizing his vast experience in European leagues to cope with the pressure of big matches. He established himself as an extraordinary star and directly contributed to tipping the scales in his team's favor before halftime.

The language of numbers: Mahrez shines with Al Ahly

Mahrez's brilliance in this match was no fluke; it was the continuation of a series of strong performances since joining Al Ahly. According to official statistics for Mahrez's appearances with Al Ahly this season across all competitions, his numbers are as follows:

• Number of matches: 28 matches.
• Total goal contributions: 16 contributions.
• Goals scored: 6 goals.
• Assists: 10 passes.

These figures reflect the pivotal role played by "Pride of the Arabs" in coach Matthias Jiesle's attacking system, as he is considered the most influential player in the final third of the field, whether through direct finishing or creating opportunities for his teammates.

From Manchester to Jeddah... added artistic value

In the broader context, Riyad Mahrez's presence in the Saudi Professional League represents a significant qualitative addition to the competition, given his illustrious career, most notably his historic treble with Manchester City before his arrival in Jeddah. The transfer of a player of his stature, generating such media and fan attention, was not merely a marketing ploy, but a tremendous boost to Al-Ahli's squad. He brought with him a winning mentality and the ability to deliver decisive performances in crucial moments, as was clearly demonstrated in the match against Al-Shabab.

Mahrez's impact on Al Ahly's ambitions

Mahrez's contributions take on added importance at this stage of the season, as Al Ahli strives to solidify its position at the top of the table, secure an Asian Champions League spot, and compete strongly on all fronts. Having a player with individual brilliance, such as dribbling skills, accurate shooting, and intelligent passing, gives the team a clear advantage over direct rivals. With the league entering its crucial stages, Al Ahli fans are placing great hope in Mahrez's magic to continue accumulating points and fulfilling the aspirations of the passionate Al Ahli supporters.

Algerian international Riyad Mahrez continued his exceptional performances for Al-Ahli Saudi FC, reaffirming his high level of skill as one of the league's top stars. This brilliance was clearly on display during the current fiery match against Al-Shabab in the 22nd round of the competition, where Mahrez made a double impact by scoring one goal and assisting another.

A fiery first half and Al-Ahly's dominance

The match was thrilling from the opening minutes, with Al-Ahli imposing their attacking style on Al-Shabab's home ground in Riyadh. The Jeddah-based club finished the first half with a commanding 4-2 lead, showcasing a powerful attacking display that reflected the excellent tactical work of both the coach and the players. Mahrez played a pivotal role in unlocking Al-Shabab's defense, proving crucial in both initiating and finishing attacks, thus giving his team a comfortable advantage before halftime.

Riyad Mahrez's numbers with Al Ahly... Goals don't lie

Mahrez's brilliance in this match was no fluke; it's the continuation of an outstanding season for the "Desert Warrior" with Al Ahly. According to official statistics for Mahrez's appearances with Al Ahly this season across all competitions, his numbers are as follows:

• Number of matches: 28 matches.
• Total goal contributions: 16 contributions.
• Goals scored: 6 goals.
• Assists: 10 passes.

These figures confirm that Mahrez is not just a traditional right winger, but a top-class playmaker, as his number of assists exceeds his goals, highlighting his collective role in serving the team's attacking system.

From the Premier League to the Roshan League... added technical value

Returning to the broader context, Riyad Mahrez's arrival at Al-Ahli from Manchester City, following their historic treble-winning season, represents a major turning point for the club and the Saudi league in general. The Algerian star didn't come to retire; rather, he arrived to contribute his technical skills and extensive international experience gained in European leagues. Mahrez's signing is part of Saudi Arabia's ambitious sports project, which aims to make the Saudi Professional League one of the strongest leagues in the world by attracting elite footballers.

Tactical impact and importance of Mahrez in Al-Ahly's strategy

From a technical and tactical standpoint, Mahrez is the heart and soul of the team's attack. His ability to retain possession under pressure, his exceptional vision, and the precision of his long and short passes provide Al-Ahli with a variety of solutions to break down opposing defenses. His contributions become even more crucial in major matches (derbies and classics), where teams need players with a "champion's mentality" and the ability to capitalize on half-chances – something Mahrez excels at. This makes him an indispensable pillar of the Jeddah-based team's squad, which aspires to compete for all titles.

Algerian international Riyad Mahrez continued his dazzling performances for Al-Ahli Saudi FC, reaffirming his high level of skill and status as one of the most prominent signings in the history of the Saudi Professional League. This came after Mahrez made an immediate and impactful contribution during the thrilling derby match against Al-Shabab in the 22nd round of the competition, scoring one goal and providing another with his characteristic brilliance.

A fiery first half and Al-Ahly's dominance

The match, held at Al-Shabab Club Stadium in Riyadh, was incredibly exciting, particularly in the first half, which ended with a resounding 4-2 victory for Al-Ahli. Al-Ahli delivered a dominant attacking performance, spearheaded by Mahrez and his teammates. The Algerian star was the driving force behind their offensive operations, dictating the tempo of the game and directly contributing to his team's success in this crucial encounter.

Riyad Mahrez's numbers with Al Ahly: The numbers don't lie

Mahrez's brilliance in this match was no fluke; it was the continuation of an exceptional season for the "Desert Warrior" with Al Ahly. According to official statistics for Mahrez's participation in various competitions this season, his numbers are as follows:

• Number of matches: 28 matches.
• Total goal contributions: 16 contributions.
• Goals scored: 6 goals.
• Assists: 10 passes.

These statistics confirm that Mahrez is not just a goalscorer, but a top-class playmaker, as the number of his assists exceeds his goals, reflecting his collective role in serving the team's attacking system.

Technical value and Mahrez's impact on Al Ahly's project

Since joining Al Ahly from Manchester City after their historic treble-winning season, Riyad Mahrez has added a tremendous technical and tactical dimension to the team. Mahrez is a cornerstone of Al Ahly's project to return to winning ways, as the coach and his teammates rely on him to unlock tight defenses, especially in big matches that demand individual brilliance and extensive international experience.

The significance of these contributions lies in the context of the fierce competition witnessed in the Saudi League this season, as Al-Ahli strives to solidify its place in the top four and secure an Asian Champions League spot, leveraging the accumulated experience of its international stars. Mahrez's continued upward trajectory is a positive sign for Al-Ahli fans, who are counting on him heavily to deliver decisive results in the final stages of the season, both in the league and in other available competitions.