Football fans around the world are eagerly anticipating a day of exciting and thrilling matches on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, with numerous important games taking place across various local and continental levels. From the heated competition in the Saudi Professional League, through the promotion battle in the Yellow Subs League, to the pinnacle of European football with fiery encounters in the UEFA Champions League, this report from Al-Midan Al-Riyadi presents a complete schedule of these matches and their details.

Crucial matches in the Saudi Professional League

The Saudi Professional League, which has gained international momentum in recent years thanks to attracting top stars, is entering a new round of matches featuring crucial encounters. Clubs are striving to improve their positions in the standings, whether in the title race or the battle to avoid relegation. The Al-Ahli vs. Al-Ettifaq match is one of the most anticipated, bringing together two historically significant teams with large fan bases, guaranteeing a vibrant atmosphere and intense competition on the pitch. All eyes are also on the other matches, which could significantly alter the landscape of the league.

• Al Najma vs. Al Riyadh – 6:20 PM
• Al-Ahli vs. Al-Ettifaq – 8:30 PM
• Al-Fayha vs. Al-Khaleej – 8:30 PM

Champions League Night: Europe's giants clash in dramatic fashion

The UEFA Champions League is considered the most prestigious and lucrative club competition in the world, and Wednesday will witness a series of breathtaking matches. These encounters bring together the elite clubs of Europe, from Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, Manchester City, and Liverpool, to Paris Saint-Germain, Juventus, and Barcelona. Every match in this tournament is an event in itself, carrying immense importance in determining the teams' paths towards the coveted title. Matches such as Benfica vs. Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain vs. Newcastle, and Bayern Munich vs. PSV Eindhoven are considered early finals due to the strength and rich history of the teams.

• St. Giles vs. Atlanta – 11:00 PM
• Club Brugge vs. Marseille – 11:00 PM
• Paphos vs Slavia Prague – 11:00 PM
• Ajax vs Olympiacos – 11:00 PM
• Atletico Madrid vs. Bodø/Glimt – 11:00 PM
• Benfica vs Real Madrid – 11:00 PM
• Monaco vs. Juventus – 11:00 PM
• Arsenal vs. Kirat – 11:00 PM
• Eintracht Frankfurt vs Tottenham Hotspur – 11:00 PM
• Bayer Leverkusen vs Villarreal – 11:00 PM
• Paris Saint-Germain vs. Newcastle – 11:00 PM
• Manchester City vs. Galatasaray – 11:00 PM
• Liverpool vs. Qarabag Agdam – 11:00 PM
• Napoli vs Chelsea – 11:00 PM
• Barcelona vs. Copenhagen – 11:00 PM
• PSV Eindhoven vs Bayern Munich – 11:00 PM

Fierce competition in the Yellow Division First Division League

The matches in the Yellow League are no less important than those in the Yellow League, as they represent the gateway to the top flight, the Roshan League. First-division clubs compete fiercely in each round for promotion, making every match a tactical and physical battle. Today's matches witness a strong struggle between teams striving to prove their worth and achieve their promotion dream, adding a special dimension of excitement and competitiveness to the competition.

• Al-Bukayriyah vs. Al-Ula – 3:50 PM
• Al-Ta'i vs. Al-Oruba – 3:50 PM
• Al-Adalah vs. Al-Diriyah – 6:00 PM
• Al Wahda vs Jeddah – 6:45 PM

In a move reflecting Al-Hilal's strong desire to maintain the team's stability and core structure, renowned agent Jorge Mendes has given the green light to begin formal negotiations regarding a three-year contract extension for his client, Portuguese star Ruben Neves. This news underscores Neves's significant importance to Al-Hilal's future plans, especially after his exceptional first season with the club.

Background of the transition and its immediate effect

Ruben Neves' arrival at Al-Hilal in the summer of 2023 from Wolverhampton Wanderers was one of the most significant transfers in the Saudi Professional League, not only for its financial value but also because the player was at the peak of his career and attracting the attention of major European clubs. From the outset, Neves proved to be a resounding success, becoming a key player in the team's midfield. He distinguished himself with his ability to control the tempo of the game, his precise passing, and his powerful shots that decided many matches. He played a direct role in Al-Hilal's historic season, in which they won the Saudi Professional League title undefeated, in addition to winning the King's Cup and the Saudi Super Cup.

The importance of renewal for Al-Hilal and the Saudi League

The significance of renewing Neves' contract lies in the clear message it sends from Al-Hilal's management that the club's project is not limited to acquiring international stars, but aims to build a complete and stable team capable of competing strongly at all local and continental levels. The continued presence of a player of Neves' caliber, a cornerstone of Portuguese coach Jorge Jesus's system, ensures the preservation of the team's technical identity and the cohesion of its lines. Regionally, Neves's continued presence strengthens Al-Hilal's bid to reclaim the AFC Champions League title, the most prestigious club competition in the continent. Internationally, the continued presence of an international star in the Saudi league at the peak of his career enhances the reputation and strength of the "Roshan League" as an attractive and stable destination for the best global talents, and confirms the ability of Saudi clubs to retain their star players.

Details of the offer and the future of negotiations

Sources indicate that Al-Hilal's offer extends for three additional seasons, with a preliminary agreement reached on all financial and contractual details that satisfy the player's ambitions and reflect his stature. The sources confirmed that negotiations are progressing very positively, given the mutual desire of both parties to continue this successful partnership. The official announcement of the renewal is expected in the coming days, thus concluding one of Al-Hilal's most important transfer deals and allowing them to continue their preparations for the new season with renewed ambitions.

At a press conference held this afternoon, Al-Khaleej's Greek coach, Giorgos Donis, revealed his team's preparations for their upcoming match against Al-Fayha. This match, part of the 19th round of the Saudi Professional League, is scheduled to take place at Al-Majma'ah Sports City Stadium on Wednesday evening. It is a crucial encounter for both teams as they strive to improve their positions in the league standings.

Donis confidently affirmed his team's readiness for the match, noting the high level of focus displayed by all players during the preparation period. He stated, "We are fully prepared for the Al-Fayha match and are constantly working to improve our collective performance on the field." He added that the team is currently in a phase where they are striving to translate their training efforts into tangible results on the pitch, which is the ultimate goal in every match.

General context and importance of the match in the Roshan League

This match is particularly important given both teams' positions in the middle of the Roshan League standings. Each is striving to secure a comfortable position away from the complexities of relegation and aspiring to climb higher up the table. This season's Roshan League is witnessing unprecedented competitiveness, making every point crucial. Therefore, a victory in such a head-to-head match is worth six points, as it boosts the winner's tally and prevents their direct rival from gaining ground.

Technical analysis and tactical challenges

Donis didn't neglect to praise the strength of the opponent, explaining that facing Al-Fayha requires caution and high tactical discipline. He elaborated, saying, "We know that Al-Fayha is a well-organized team with high quality in quick attacking transitions, and we must deal intelligently with their strengths throughout the match." The Greek coach's remarks indicate that he has prepared a sound plan to neutralize Al-Fayha's threat on counter-attacks, while focusing on imposing Al-Khaleej's style of play and controlling the midfield.

Goal: A positive outcome to strengthen the journey

Donis emphasized that the primary objective is to secure a positive result at Al Majma'ah Stadium, affirming that the entire team is eager to achieve victory and improve their position in the league standings. He stated, "We are looking for a positive result that strengthens our position in the league table and gives the players greater motivation and confidence for the upcoming matches." This statement reflects Al Khaleej's strong desire to build a series of positive results that will ensure they achieve their goals by the end of the season, and underscores the continuous development that the coaching staff and players are striving for.