In important statements following the Asian encounter, Al-Nassr's Portuguese coach, Jorge Jesus, put an end to the rumors circulating about the club submitting a formal complaint regarding the congested schedule for the current 2025/2026 season. This came during the press conference held after his team's well-deserved victory over Turkmenistan's Erkadag, where the veteran coach clarified his and the team's stance on the current challenges.

Jesus confirmed to the media that any objections, if they exist, fall under purely administrative responsibilities and are not within his technical purview as the team's coach. The Portuguese coach emphasized his coaching philosophy, which considers playing a match every three days a normal and expected practice for major clubs competing for titles in various tournaments, noting that this schedule is the price of success and competition at the highest levels.

In a related context, the Al-Nassr coach highlighted the team's rising technical performance, explaining that Al-Nassr is fighting fiercely on two main fronts this season, namely the local league and the AFC Champions League 2. Jesus praised the high tactical discipline of his players, citing a remarkable record achieved by the team of playing nine consecutive matches without conceding a goal, which reflects the defensive solidity and great commitment of the team members on the pitch.

The 71-year-old addressed the difficulties the team faced recently, noting that Al-Nassr went through a critical period due to a spate of injuries to key players. However, he expressed great optimism about the noticeable improvement in performance and results in recent matches, emphasizing that the team is gradually regaining its strength and attacking prowess as the injured players return and the group gels.

Jesus concluded his remarks with an emotional and direct message to Al-Nassr fans, emphasizing that the players are making great sacrifices and deserve to have the stadiums packed to capacity to support and encourage them in the upcoming matches. It is worth noting that Al-Nassr secured their qualification after defeating their guest, Arkadag, 1-0 in the second leg of the AFC Champions League on Wednesday evening, repeating the same score as the first leg and thus confirming their determination to continue their pursuit of the continental title.

All eyes of football fans across Asia, particularly in the Arabian Gulf region, are on the highly anticipated and fiery clash between Saudi Arabia's Al-Nassr and the UAE's Al-Wasl, in the quarter-finals of the AFC Champions League. This encounter comes after both teams successfully overcame previous hurdles and secured their places among the continent's top eight.

Schedule of the first and second leg matches

According to the approved schedule for the continental competition, the dates for the decisive matches between the two Gulf clubs have been set. The first leg is scheduled for Tuesday, March 3rd , with Al-Nasr traveling to the United Arab Emirates to face Al-Wasl. This match presents an opportunity for the Emirati team to try and secure a positive result, taking advantage of playing at home in front of their fans, before the decisive second leg.

The second leg will be played on Tuesday, March 10, in the Saudi capital, Riyadh. Al-Nassr, bolstered by a squad of international stars and a massive fan base, will be looking to capitalize on playing the decisive match at their home ground, Al-Ahli Park, to secure a place in the semi-finals and continue their quest for the continental title that has eluded the club for so long.

The importance of confrontation and the historical context

Matches between Saudi and Emirati clubs always carry a special competitive edge, characterized by intense rivalry and excitement, given the similar skill levels and long history of competition in Gulf and Asian tournaments. This match holds added importance for Al-Nassr, who have made the Asian Champions League their top priority this season, especially considering the significant support and major signings the team has made to compete at the highest international levels.

Regional influence and global ambitions

The importance of this match extends beyond the purely sporting aspect, encompassing a wide media and public impact across the region. The fact that Al-Nassr and Al-Wasl have reached this stage reflects the development of Gulf football and its ability to dominate continental competitions. For Al-Nassr, overcoming Al-Wasl means taking a significant step towards realizing their Asian dream, placing a heavy responsibility on the coaching staff and players to deliver a performance worthy of Saudi football's reputation.

Both matches are expected to draw large crowds in Dubai and Riyadh, as fan groups have begun preparing early to support their teams in this important continental competition, promising enjoyable football matches worthy of the AFC Champions League's reputation.

Football fans will be glued to their screens today, Thursday, January 19, 2026, as numerous local and international stadiums host a packed schedule of crucial matches across various competitions. These fixtures of paramount importance given the sensitive mid-season period, with each team striving to improve their league position or secure qualification for continental competitions.

Domestically, Saudi football continues to shine and attract attention through the Saudi Professional League (SPL) . The league has witnessed tremendous development in recent years thanks to significant support and strategic planning that has made it a focus of global attention, attracting some of the brightest stars. Today's match features Al-Ahli against Al-Najma, a game in which Al-Ahli will be looking to prove their worth and compete for a top spot. The day also includes derbies and historically competitive matches, such as the Al-Ettifaq vs. Al-Fateh clash, which often carries a special significance in the Eastern Province.

Moving on to the first division, the Yelo League fierce competition among clubs vying for promotion to the top flight. This competition is the primary source of talent and strong teams for the Premier League, making today's matches, such as the Al-Jandal vs. Al-Raed clash, highly anticipated by fans, especially given the close points standings and the desire of established clubs like Al-Raed to solidify their position.

On the international stage, Europe's vibrant nightlife returns with the Europa League and the UEFA Europa League . These competitions offer a chance for established clubs to reclaim their former glory and for ambitious clubs to prove themselves on the continent. Today's schedule features some heavyweight clashes, most notably the classic encounter between Celtic and Stuttgart. The presence of established English clubs like Nottingham Forest and Crystal Palace adds a special flavor and guaranteed excitement for viewers, as these clubs strive for European glory and aim to delight their fans.

Below we present the details of today's match schedules and the broadcasting channels:

Today's Roshan League match schedule

• 10:00 - Al-Ettifaq vs Al-Fateh
• 10:00 - Al Ahli vs Al Najma
• 10:00 - Al-Kholoud vs Al-Riyadh

Today's Yellow League match schedule

• 09:45 - Al-Jandal vs Al-Raed
• 09:45 - Al-Adalah vs Jeddah
• 09:45 - Al Jubail vs Al Batin
• 09:45 - Al Anwar vs Al Jabalain
• 10:30 - Al Wahda vs Al Bukairiyah

Today's Europa League fixtures

• 08:45 - Dinamo Zagreb vs Genk
• 08:45 - Brann vs Bologna
• 08:45 - PAOK vs Celta Vigo
• 08:45 - Fenerbahce vs Nottingham Forest
• 11:00 - Lille vs Servina
• 11:00 - Panathinaikos vs Viktoria Plzen
• 11:00 - Ludogorets vs Ferencváros
• 11:00 - Celtic vs Stuttgart

Today's European Conference League fixtures

• 08:45 - Zrinjski Mosta vs Crystal Palace
• 11:00 - Jagiellonia Białystok vs Fiorentina