Amid the major transformations taking place in the global sports landscape, clubs are no longer merely competitive institutions striving to win titles and trophies. They have evolved into influential social and cultural platforms that play a pivotal role in shaping public awareness and instilling values. In Saudi Arabia, this role transcends the traditional concept, becoming part of a comprehensive strategy that enhances quality of life and showcases the civilized face of society.

Initiatives that extend beyond the pitch:
Al-Ahli Saudi Club offers a living example of this positive transformation through its Ramadan food basket initiative, which witnessed remarkable participation from its players, both Muslim and non-Muslim. This scene not only reflects the spirit of solidarity but also sends a global message of inclusion and mutual respect. Similarly, Al-Hilal player Mohammed Kanno's initiative to distribute miswak (chewing sticks) to his teammates of various nationalities stood out as a symbolic gesture introducing local culture in a friendly and simple way, embodying the shift of sports from an arena of physical competition to a space for community and human connection.

As a tool of soft power,
these initiatives carry a profound civilizational message that serves the concept of "soft power." When a non-Muslim international athlete participates in preparing a Ramadan food basket or engages with local traditions, he genuinely connects with the spirit of the environment in which he lives and shares this experience with his followers around the world. Here, sports become a strong bridge for human connection and a space for cultural understanding, contributing to building a positive image of the Kingdom as an environment that embraces diversity and coexistence, which aligns with the goals of cultural openness that the country is witnessing.

Promoting social responsibility and setting a positive example
locally, and specifically for Saudi athletes, engaging in such activities strengthens their sense of social responsibility and reinforces the concept of role models. Today's sports stars are no longer just players on the field; they are influential figures followed by millions. When young people see their stars participating in charitable initiatives, the values ​​of giving and solidarity are reinforced, and sporting success transforms into a moral model to be emulated, thus contributing to strengthening the social fabric.

A Sustainable Impact Locally and Internationally:
The impact of these initiatives is profound and multifaceted; they revive the spirit of cooperation and reaffirm that sports institutions are an integral part of society. Furthermore, the participation of athletes from diverse cultures reflects the Kingdom's image to the world as a humane and inclusive environment built on respect. Soft power is at its finest when a world-class athlete creates a positive impression that transcends the boundaries of sports media, confirming that sport is a noble humanitarian message through which values ​​are built and societies are strengthened.

By: Dr. Suleiman Mohammed Al-Atni

All eyes of football fans in Saudi Arabia and the Arab world are on the Kingdom Arena, where Al-Hilal's first team is preparing to host their traditional rivals, Al-Ittihad, in a highly anticipated match as part of the 23rd round of the Saudi Professional League. This match comes amidst great public anticipation due to the importance of the three points in both teams' pursuit of the title.

Absences due to technical decisions and injuries disrupt Inzaghi's plans

The Al-Hilal coaching staff, led by Italian coach Simone Inzaghi, significant challenges ahead of the Clasico, with the confirmed absence of several key players. Among the absentees is Marcos Leonardo, the match against Al-Ittihad. This decision was made by Inzaghi, who opted to exclude Leonardo from the squad due to his continued individual training and failure to reach the required fitness level for a match of this magnitude.

Meanwhile, doubts have grown regarding Theo Hernandez's in the upcoming match. Although the player took part in part of the team's training session today, his physical condition is not yet at 100%. Simone Inzaghi is expected to make a final decision on Hernandez's participation within the next few hours, with strong indications suggesting he will either be absent or on the bench to avoid aggravating any muscle injury.

A morale boost with Malcolm's return

Amid these absences, Al-Hilal fans received welcome news with the confirmation that Brazilian star Malcom Felipe for selection. The player has shown a full recovery from the injury that recently sidelined him from group training in recent days. Malcom's return is a significant boost for coach Inzaghi, given his exceptional ability to make a difference in big matches and the diverse attacking options he offers, which the team needs to unlock Al-Ittihad's defense.

The importance of El Clásico and its impact on the league race

This match holds strategic importance that transcends the mere three points at stake; the Al-Hilal vs. Al-Ittihad encounter represents the "Saudi Arabian football classic," attracting widespread regional and international attention. Historically, matches between these two teams have been crucial in determining the league title race, with each side striving to assert its dominance and delight its fans.

From a tactical standpoint, these absences will be a true test of Al-Hilal's squad depth and Inzaghi's ability to adapt to unforeseen circumstances against a formidable opponent like Al-Ittihad. A victory in this match would significantly boost the team's chances of competing for the Roshan League title, while any setbacks could complicate matters in the remaining rounds of the season.

Saudi football fans are gearing up for a highly anticipated clash as Al-Ittihad's Portuguese coach, Sergio Conceição, puts the finishing touches on his starting lineup for the match against arch-rivals Al-Hilal. This highly anticipated encounter, part of the 23rd round of the Saudi Professional League, will be held at the Kingdom Arena, Al-Hilal's new home ground, adding a special layer of excitement to the derby.

Significant changes in the Dean's back line

According to sources close to Al-Ittihad, coach Conceição has decided to make significant tactical and personnel changes, particularly in defense, to neutralize Al-Hilal's potent attack. The most notable change is the return of the solid defender Ahmed Sharahili to the starting lineup at the heart of the defense, forming a strong partnership with professional player Danilo Pereira. This return aims to bolster the defensive solidity that the Portuguese coach seeks in such high-stakes matches.

In a related context, the technical staff will rely on Hassan Kadash to occupy the left-back position, in a move aimed at compensating for the absence of player Mario Metai from this crucial match, while Muhannad Al-Shanqiti retains his position on the right flank.

Al-Ittihad's expected lineup for the Al-Hilal match

It is expected that "Al-Ittihad" will enter the Clasico match with a balanced formation that combines defensive solidity with a powerful attacking force, consisting of the following names:

• Goalkeeper: Bridge Rajkovic.
• Defense line: Muhannad Al-Shanqiti, Danilo Pereira, Ahmed Sharahili, Hassan Kadash.
• Midfield: Fabinho Tavares, Houssem Aouar, Mohamedou Doumbia.
• Attackers: Moussa Diaby, Steven Bergwijn, Youssef En-Nesyri.

A morale boost and the importance of El Clásico

Al-Ittihad enters this match with extremely high morale, drawing strength from their recent resounding victory at the continental level. The team triumphed over Qatari side Al-Sadd with a score of 4-1 in the AFC Champions League, a win that restored confidence to both the fans and the players.

The Al-Hilal vs. Al-Ittihad match holds strategic importance that transcends the mere three points; it represents a historic struggle for supremacy and directly impacts the shape of the competition at the top of the Saudi League standings. Conceição aims to exploit the attacking prowess of the trio Diaby, Bergwijn, and En-Nesyri to break Al-Hilal's dominance at their home ground and secure a victory that would mark a significant turning point in the team's season.