Ahmed Sharahili, the rock of the first football team’s defense at Al-Ittihad Club, made important and strong statements regarding the crucial challenges that await the Dean in the coming period, most notably the anticipated Saudi football classic against Al-Hilal Club, in addition to the expected continental confrontation against Al-Sadd of Qatar.

Continental focus before local clash

Speaking on the "Our League is Different" program, Sharahili emphasized the importance of a gradual approach and avoiding premature conclusions, stressing that the current priority is entirely focused on the Asian competition. Sharahili stated, "Our current focus is completely on the team's upcoming match against Al Sadd of Qatar in the AFC Champions League." These remarks reflect the professional mindset within the club, where the Asian Champions League is considered a strategic objective for major Saudi clubs to solidify their continental dominance.

Al-Hilal's classic match: Special preparations

Regarding the highly anticipated match in the Saudi Professional League against their traditional rivals, Al-Hilal, which will be held at Al-Inma Stadium, Sharahili explained that this match has a special character and considerations entirely different from the rest of the league matches. He pointed out that "the Al-Hilal match will require special preparation in every aspect," reflecting the players' awareness of the importance of the derby and its direct impact on the league standings, as matches between the two teams always attract massive public and media attention both locally and regionally.

Emotional confrontation against Karim Benzema

In a related context, Sharahili spoke about the emotional and professional encounter he will have with his former teammate, French star Karim Benzema, in their first meeting since the latter's departure from Al-Ittihad. Sharahili commented with heartfelt words that blended friendship and professionalism, saying: "Karim Benzema is undoubtedly like a brother to me, and that's life and football. I wish him all the best in his new career.".

The international defender clarified that friendship ends at the starting whistle, adding: "My first and last goal is to help my team. I have a strong friendship with Benzema, but on the pitch, loyalty to Al-Ittihad is the motto." This match is a special occasion for the fans who have grown attached to the French star during his time with the club, adding extra excitement to the encounter.

Physical readiness and reassurances to the fans

Sharahili concluded his remarks by reassuring Al-Ittihad fans about his health following reports of an injury, stating: "I sustained an injury, but thankfully it's minor, and I will be ready for the team's upcoming match against Al-Sadd of Qatar, as well as the Al-Hilal game, as normal." Sharahili's return and readiness are considered a tremendous morale and tactical boost for Al-Ittihad's defense, given his extensive experience and ability to handle high-pressure matches.

In a stunning upset that shook up the French Ligue 1 standings, Rennes managed to halt Paris Saint-Germain's winning streak, inflicting a crushing 3-1 defeat on them in their match on Friday evening as part of the 22nd round of the competition. Jordanian star Musa Al-Taamari played a heroic role in this footballing spectacle, doing a great service to Lens, who are now vying for the top spot.

Al-Taamari's brilliance and the exciting match scenario

The match witnessed a remarkable performance from Jordanian international Musa Al-Taamari, who opened the scoring in the 34th minute with a brilliant individual effort. Al-Taamari received the ball, skillfully dribbled past Ecuadorian defender Willian Pacho, and then slotted it into the right corner of the net, giving the home side the lead and breaking down the Parisian defense. Rennes weren't content with just one goal, as Esteban Lepoul doubled their advantage in the 69th minute with a perfectly placed header from a corner kick taken by Polish player Sebastian Szymański.

Despite the visitors' attempts to come back through Ousmane Dembele's goal in the 72nd minute, which came with a setup from Moroccan star Achraf Hakimi, Swiss substitute Breel Embolo fired the final shot at the Parisians' hopes by scoring the third goal in the 81st minute with his chest, taking advantage of a decisive pass from Ludovic Blaze.

The repercussions of the defeat on the French league lead

This result has significant repercussions for the French league standings, as Paris Saint-Germain's points tally remains at 51, ending their seven-match winning streak. This setback has placed the Parisian club under immense pressure, as they are now threatened with losing their top spot to their closest rival, Lens, who trail by just two points and face a crucial match against Paris FC on Saturday, which could completely reshape the title race.

Rennes' fighting spirit is back, and the importance of winning

On the other hand, this victory represents a pivotal turning point in Rennes' season, coming as a surprise after a string of poor results that included four consecutive defeats in all competitions and five matches without a win. The three points earned lift the team to 34 points, moving them up to fifth place and reviving their hopes of qualifying for European competitions.

Historically, this victory has a special flavor for Rennes fans, as it is the team's first win against the Parisian giant since March 2023. It came to end a six-match losing streak in which Rennes suffered five defeats, the last of which was a heavy 5-0 loss in the first leg of the current season, making this victory have a special taste in terms of redemption and restoring footballing dignity.

Technical details and goalkeepers' brilliance

The match was fiercely contested from the opening minutes, with Rennes showing their attacking intent early on when Esteban Lepoul's shot struck the right post in the sixth minute. In contrast, Paris Saint-Germain's attack appeared lackluster for much of the game, and Rennes goalkeeper Brice Samba dealt with a number of timid attempts, most notably a shot from Désiré Doué. He also made a crucial save in the 77th minute, denying substitute Gonçalo Ramos a certain goal, thus securing the three points for his team.

Football fans are eagerly anticipating a day packed with exciting and competitive matches, as Al-Midan Al-Riyadi provides a comprehensive overview of Saturday's diverse fixtures . This day promises a flurry of action across various international, local, and continental leagues, from the Saudi Professional League to the top five European leagues, culminating in the thrilling African football scene.

Saudi Roshan League: The battle for points heats up

The Saudi Professional League continues its relentless pace, with this week's matches proving crucial in shaping the league standings. All eyes will be on the clash between Al-Fateh and Al-Nassr, as the latter aims to maintain its strong performances and challenge for the top spot, bolstered by its squad of international stars. The round also features important matches for mid-table teams battling to avoid relegation, promising exciting encounters every minute of play.

Serie A summit clash and Real Madrid's pursuit in La Liga

On the European stage, the Italian league steals the spotlight with a heavyweight clash between Inter Milan and Juventus. This match, historically known as the "Derby d'Italia," is one of the most prestigious encounters in football history, its significance extending far beyond the three points at stake. It embodies the historic rivalry and footballing prestige between these two giants of northern Italy. Meanwhile, in Spain, Real Madrid continues its quest to defend its pride with a tough match against Real Sociedad, a game that will require the utmost concentration from the Royal Club to overcome the stubborn Basque side.

FA Cup and African competitions

In England, all eyes are on the world's oldest football competition, the FA Cup, where Liverpool faces Brighton in a must-win match, while Aston Villa clashes with Newcastle United. Meanwhile, in Africa, the excitement returns with the CAF Champions League and Confederation Cup, as Arab clubs face crucial encounters. Among the highlights are Egypt's Zamalek against South Africa's Kaizer Chiefs and Sudan's Al-Hilal, as these clubs strive to improve their chances of qualifying for the final stages.

Details of Saturday's various match schedules

Here is the complete list of matches and their times in Mecca time, as received from the source:

Roshan Professional League

• Riyadh vs. Al-Khaleej (4:55 PM)
• Al Najma vs Al Khaleej (6:35 PM)
• Al-Fateh vs. Al-Nasr (8:30 PM)

Spanish League (La Liga)

• Espanyol vs Celta Vigo (4:00 PM)
• Getafe vs Villarreal (6:15 PM)
• Sevilla vs Deportivo Alaves (8:30 PM)
• Real Madrid vs Real Sociedad (11:00 PM)

Italian League (Calcio)

• Coco x Fiorentina (5:00 PM)
• Lazio vs Atalanta (8:00 PM)
• Inter Milan vs Juventus (10:45 PM)

German League (Bundesliga)

• Werder Bremen vs Bayern Munich (5:30 PM)
• Bayer Leverkusen vs St. Pauli (5:30 PM)

FA Cup

• Southampton vs Leicester City (6:00 PM)
• Aston Villa vs Newcastle United (8:45 PM)
• Liverpool vs Brighton (11:00 PM)

African Champions League

• Al-Hilal Sudanese vs. Saint Eloi Lupopo (4:00 PM)
• Pyramids vs. Power Dynamos (10:00 PM)

African Confederation Cup

• Zamalek vs Kaizer Chiefs (7:00 PM)
• Al Masry Al Portsaidi vs Zesco (7:00 PM)