Senegalese international goalkeeper, Edouard Mendy, arrived in Jeddah on Friday, in preparation for joining his team, Al-Ahli Saudi Club, for training, after the end of his participation with his national team in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations held in Ivory Coast.

Mendy's return represents a significant morale and tactical boost for Al-Ahli, who missed his services in eight matches during the continental tournament. The absence of the former Chelsea goalkeeper was keenly felt, as he is considered a key player in the squad that is strongly competing for a top spot in the Saudi Professional League.

Background of African participation

Mendy represented Senegal, the defending champions, and the team delivered a strong performance in the group stage, achieving a perfect record of three wins. However, their journey ended unexpectedly in the round of 16 at the hands of Ivory Coast, the host nation and current champions, after a marathon match decided by penalties. Despite the early exit, Mendy's impressive performances confirmed his status as one of the continent's best goalkeepers.

The importance of Mendy's return to Al Ahly

The potential transfer of Édouard Mendy, the 2021 UEFA Champions League winner and FIFA's Best Goalkeeper in the World, to Al-Ahli in the summer of 2023 is considered one of the most significant deals of the Saudi Pro League season. His return is particularly crucial at this critical juncture, as Al-Ahli aims to solidify its position in the top four and compete for second place. Having a goalkeeper of Mendy's experience and caliber will provide the team with greater confidence in its back line and contribute to a more organized defense, something the team needs in its upcoming challenging matches.

Preparing for the upcoming match

Al-Ahli is set to face a crucial match away against Al-Akhdoud (not Neom as originally reported, since Neom is not currently playing in the Roshan League) in the upcoming round of the Roshan League. Al-Ahli currently sits third in the standings with 37 points, level on points with second-placed Al-Nassr but behind on goal difference. This makes every upcoming match a must-win for Al-Ahli as they strive to maintain their position and compete for a spot in next season's Asian Champions League. Mendy is expected to be available for the match and will be a valuable asset to his team as they aim for victory and all three points.

With the curtain falling on the first half of the Saudi Professional League, Al-Hilal has firmly established its lead, deservedly claiming the title of "Winter Champions" after finishing the first half undefeated, reaffirming its determination to reclaim the title. While Al-Hilal soars to the top, its traditional rival, Al-Nassr, led by its global star Cristiano Ronaldo, continues its relentless pursuit in second place, followed by Al-Ahli, which has made a strong comeback to the top flight in third. This sets the stage for an even fiercer and more exciting second half of the competition.

Background to the fierce competition in the Saudi League

The Saudi Professional League (SPL) is witnessing an unprecedented historical boom this season, thanks to the massive investments injected by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), which have attracted a constellation of the world's brightest football stars. This transformation has not only raised the technical level of the league but has also placed it in the global spotlight, making it one of the most-watched leagues in the region and the world. The current rivalry between Al-Hilal and Al-Nassr is not merely a competition for points; it is an extension of a historic rivalry between two giants, now taking on a global dimension with the presence of world-class players on both teams, thus adding extra significance to every round.

Details and figures of the seventeenth round

The seventeenth round was a stage for exciting events that reflected the fierce competition across all positions in the table. The round witnessed nine matches, five of which ended in decisive victories, while four ended in draws (two with goals and two goalless). The high scoring rate of 31 goals, averaging 3.44 goals per match, was noteworthy, demonstrating the attacking approach adopted by most teams. In terms of discipline, referees issued 36 yellow cards and one red card, and awarded two penalties, one of which was converted and the other missed.

The battle for the top scorer title

The race for the league's top scorer title is just as exciting as the title race itself. Portuguese legend Cristiano Ronaldo, the Al-Nassr striker, continues to lead the pack with 16 goals, delivering exceptional performances. Closely following him is Serbian striker Aleksandar Mitrovic, the Al-Hilal star, who has proven to be a top-class signing, scoring 15 goals so far. This duel between two global superstars adds extra excitement to the league and captivates millions of football fans worldwide.

Round 17 statistics:

• Number of matches: 9
• Victories: 5
• Positive draws: 2
• 2 goalless draws
• Total goals: 31 goals
• Goals per game average: 3.44
• Penalty kicks: 2
• Yellow cards: 36
• Red cards: 1

General statistics from the league so far:

• Total matches: 144
• Total goals: 448
• Goals per game average: 3.11
• Total red cards: 50
• Total yellow cards: 556
• Total penalties: 61