Al-Nassr Clinches Victory in Saudi Women’s Premier League

In a display of dominance, Al-Nassr secured victory over their rivals, Al Hilal, in their latest match, thereby ensuring the retention of the trophy in Riyadh for the second edition of the Saudi Women’s Premier League.

Background and Competition Overview

Al-Nassr, the reigning champions, maintained their stronghold in Saudi Arabia’s premier women’s football league despite stiff competition from teams like Al-Hilal and Al-Ittihad earlier in the season. Notably, Al-Ittihad posed a significant challenge with international signings such as Ashleigh Plumptre and Salma Amani, but Al-Nassr’s blend of foreign talent and Saudi national team stars proved to be more effective.

Al-Hilal, the runners-up from the previous season, also posed a strong challenge. The league comprised eight teams, including Al-Shabab, Eastern Flames, Al-Riyadh, Al-Qadisiyah, and Al-Ahli.

Match Highlights

The decisive match between Al-Nassr and Al-Hilal took place at Al-Nassr Stadium in Riyadh. Al-Nassr took an early lead with goals from Clara Luvanga and Sarah Al-Hamad in the 3rd and 13th minutes, respectively. Despite a goal from Al Hilal’s Mavis Owusu, Al-Nassr maintained control. In the second half, Mbaraka Al-Sayari and Lina Boussaha extended Al-Nassr’s lead, with Al Hilal’s Shokhan Salehi scoring a consolation goal.

Outcome and Standings

With this victory, Al-Nassr secured their second consecutive title with 31 points, maintaining a significant lead over their opponents. Al Hilal, on the other hand, dropped to fourth place with 16 points.

International Influence and Player Signings

The Saudi Women’s Premier League witnessed significant international involvement, with players from 24 countries participating. Clubs like Al-Nassr, Al-Hilal, Al-Ittihad, Al-Ahli, Al-Shabab, Al-Riyadh, Eastern Flames, and Al-Qadsiyah benefited from foreign talent.

Key Players Across Clubs

Al-Nassr: Clara Luvanga, Aminata Diallo, Ghada Ayadi, Lina Boussaha, Samia Ouni, Izabela Stalin, and Maysa Jbarah.
Al-Hilal: Eman Hassan, Shokhan Nooraldin, Elizabeth Addo, and Anastasiya Linnik.
Al-Ittihad: Layla Iskandar, Salma Amani, Ashleigh Plumptre, Leighanne Robe, Nor Mustafa, Malak Shannak, and Shahnaz Jebreen.
Al-Ahli: Ayah AlMajali, Alice Kusi, Naomie Kaba Kaba, Cecilia Hagan, Abla Bensenouci, Ibtissam Jraidi
Al-Shabab: Mai Swelem, Oriana Altuve, Chaima AlAbbassi, Rita Chikwelu, Ella Kaabachi, Lana Feras.
Al-Riyadh: Omnia Abdelhamid, Aroa Gomez, Carla Gomez,
Eastern Flames: Sevinj Jafarzade, Maria Khan, Enekia Kasonga, Zaneta Wyne, Ximena Mideros, Tochukwu Oluehi, Jessica Emmanuella, Erica Cunningham
Al-Qadsiyah: Rayanne Machado, Elizabeth Carabali
The league’s international flavor reflects its growing stature and potential for future growth.